As has been their habit during the early rounds of the 2018 season, the Jersey Flegg Sharks found themselves facing a second half deficit, on this occasion against the Bulldogs in a round seven match at Belmore Sports Ground.
But in what has also been a pattern, and a pleasing one at that for coach Dave Howlett, the Sharks found a way to fight back, coming from eight points behind to win 18-16 to remain on top of the Jersey Flegg competition table.
An opening try, scored by hooker Harrison Smith, converted by Brayden Trindall, had the under-20 Sharks up 6-0, before a penalty goal saw them go ahead by eight, and unlike previous weeks, it seemed as though the Cronulla side would play from in front.
But from their the tide turned, two tries to the Bulldogs, one of those converted and at half time it was 10-8 to the home team.
The Bulldogs went further ahead and while there was still around 30-minutes of the match remaining, their was cause for concern in the Sharks camp with the Canterbury boys leading 16-8.
However, as has been the case on more than one occasion this season, the Sharks gritted their teeth and responded, a try to winger Jackson Ferris bringing them within four and when Trindall converted, it was 16-14 and game on.
Another four-pointer to Chris Tupou just three minutes later saw the Sharks edge in front at 18-16 and despite the kick at goal being waved away, an exciting final quarter of the match was assured.
With defence now dominating, neither team was able to add to their score and the Sharks would grind out their fifth win in six starts and when added to their round five draw with the Dragons, see them remain unbeaten and on top of the Flegg table.
SHARKS 18
Jackson Ferris, Harrison Smith, Chris Tupou tries, Braydon Trindall 3 goals
beat
BULLDOGS 16
