The Sharks travelled to Erskineville Oval to take on Souths in Matthews Cup and SG Ball trials last Friday with both Cronulla teams handing in encouraging performances on the night.
In their first trial matches since the two groups came together during early November, the coaches from both teams were pleased by the efforts of all concerned.
While results on the night weren’t a determining factor as to their success, with the two clubs using large squads in in games which are two months before season kick-off, the Sharks did manage to out score their opponents in the two contests.
Played in 20-minute periods, the Sharks scored three tries to one in the under-16 Matthews Cup trial and were impressive in crossing for six four pointers to three in the under-18’s SG Ball match.
Sharks Academy and Talent Identification Manager Glenn Brailey was impressed by what he saw from the young Sharks teams at Erskineville Oval on Friday night.
“It was a good hit out,” Brailey said. “It was our first look at the Harold Matthews boys at the elite level and there were strong performances from some individuals in both teams, while team cohesion was pretty good considering a lot of the boys hadn’t played together.
“We’ll be looking to build now into our next two trials in January, then aim at starting our season strongly in round one.”
The Sharks are scheduled to play further trials against the Central Coast and Newcastle prior to their first game of the season on February 8.
Matthews Cup
Sharks 3 tries
Joseph Gair, Dylan Christianson, Harrison Hood tries
Souths 1
SG Ball
Sharks 6 tries
Te Wehi Waitere 2, Jack Biggs, Romano Cook, Tully Wilton, Josh Singh tries
Souths 3
