What a way to end Round 18!
While it wasn’t the most polished performance, the character and attitude got “the big tick” from Bomber as the Sharks secured a Finals berth with a thrilling 22-14 victory over the Warriors.
Match Highlights: Sharks v Warriors
Toby Rudolf will long remember his first try in the NRL. A barnstorming run with just six minutes to go, crashing through and over three would-be defenders to snatch his first meat pie and a hard-fought victory for the Sharks.
Rudolf’s late injection terrorised the New Zealand side. He ended the match with 106 metres, 23 tackles, a line break and four tackle breaks to go with his four-pointer.
Another standout was Sifa Talakai. Steamrolling through Hiku late in the second got the Sharks on the front foot, which would ultimately lead to the match-winning try.
Slotting into the back row, Sifa was a monster in both attack and defence. He clocked in 199 metres with 80 of those post-contact, throwing the final pass for Ronaldo to bag his double, recording a line break assist and try assist in the process.
His defence, as always, was bone rattling. He made 36 tackles and most impressively, missed none.
Shaun Johnson, standing in as skipper, added two more try assists to his already impressive NRL leading numbers, making it 22 so far for the season after putting it on the boot for each of the wingers.
His halves partner Connor Tracey played with plenty of energy, keeping the Warriors on their toes with his speed and enthusiasm.
Sione Katoa and Ronaldo Mulitalo were busy throughout, safe under the high ball and strong in their kick returns. Sione clocked in 155 metres to go with his try. Ronaldo 97 with his double.
Young gun Blayke Brailey was sharp out of acting half, giving his trademark crisp service, darting runs and brick wall defence with 52 tackles on the night.
It was a brutal 80 minutes, both sides desperate to claim the win, which provided an entertaining clash for spectators.
Speaking of spectators, it’s over to you. Who was the Sharks best in last night’s thriller?
Catch up on all of the highlights and cast your votes below.
