The Matthews Cup Sharks live to fight another day after grinding out a 22-18 win over the Balmain Tigers in their elimination finals match at Leichhardt Oval on Saturday.
The under-16 Sharks scored three first half tries, Billy Burke crossing for the opening try, before Kobie Wilson and Douglas Levi followed and with two conversions they would take an 18-10 lead to the break.
They extended their advantage to 22-10 in the early period of the second half when Dane Courtney scored and the Sharks appeared to be in control, however the Tigers responded, a try nine minutes from full-time putting the Sharks under pressure, with a repeat of their draw of just two weeks ago a distinct possibility.
The young Sharks however refused to to surrender, defending stoutly, closing the game out and progressing to the second week of the Matthews Cup playoffs.
The Sharks were drawn to play the losing team from the Parramatta v Manly qualifying final.
SHARKS 22
Kobe Wilson, Billy Burke, Douglas Levi, Dane Courtney tries, Courtney 2, Burke goals
beat
BALMAIN TIGERS 18
