It was a wet, scrappy and entertaining affair to kick of season 2021, as the Sharks emerged victorious with the Monty Porter Cup in hand and a 32-18 point win in the bag.
Coach John Morris was still playing the last time we managed a round-one win, and this time around it was certainly a tale of two halves (who doesn't love a cliché?).
What was a well controlled and well defended first 40 minutes, seemed to unravel in the second, before a fortuitous call saw the Sharks take advantage and kick on with it to close things out.
While it was far from our best, there was plenty to like about the performance, a gruelling pre-season paying dividends with the hustle on show right up until the final whistle.
Will Kennedy and Matt Moylan were dangerous out wide, keeping the Dragons defence guessing with each touch of the ball. Toby Rudolf worked tirelessly in the middle, as did Aaron Woods in game number 50 for the Sharks, crossing the stripe to 'get off the nudie' and seal the win.
Braden-Hamlin Uele and Briton Nikora were aggressive in both attack and defence, while Wade Graham delivered a typical captains knock.
Off the back of what he's described as his best pre-season in years, Josh Dugan looked strong, busting tackles and moving well with the ball in hand.
Not to mention the game management and goal kicking of halfback Chad Townsend, who landed a perfect six from six in the difficult conditions.
Over to you Sharks fans, you've watched the match and analysed the plays, so who deserves the first 'Man of the Match title in 2021?
Vote below now!
