Thrust into the centres mid-match due to injuries, it didn't take Siosifa Talakai long to have a game-turning impact against Souths last round.
The versatile Talakai replaced rookie winger Sam Stonestreet, who was forced off for a HIA in the 58th minute, while Kayal Iro shifted one spot wider to the flank.
About a minute later, the ball was spun wide to Talakai with seemingly not much happening. One on one against Michael Chee Kam, the Tongan wrecking ball steamrolled his opponent, sucked in the winger and sent Iro racing up the sideline.
It was an awe-inspiring display of brute strength and deft skill from Talakai – and a crucial one at that. Iro linked with Braydon Trindall to complete a 50-metre play that gave the Sharks a 14-6 buffer in a tense contest at PointsBet Stadium.
Braydon Trindall Try
Cronulla kicked on from that point, securing a vital 20-6 victory to keep Craig Fitzgibbon's side in the all-important top four with the finals fast approaching.
VB X Mitre 10 Promotion
Every case wins. Grab a specially marked case and enter online to score your Mitre 10 or Home Hardware e-voucher. 18+ Only. See https://www.victoriabitterpromotions.com.au/mitre10/
