NRLW Match Preview: Round 3 v Bulldogs

Cronulla Captain Tiana Penitani Gray has been ruled out with a quad strain in what was supposed to be her 50th NRLW game.

The Sharks will still get up for Women in League Round as they look to get their season on a roll after starting 0-2 to begin their 2026 campaign. 

In what was a thrilling Thursday night blockbuster last week against Brisbane, Cronulla fell just short to the reigning premiers in a 22-16 contest, though saw many positive signs of resilience and patience, proving that they can compete with the top sides again this year.

After their narrow loss, head coach Tony Herman had nothing but praise for his team and was extremely impressed with how well they held themselves during the contest.

“I’m really happy with the girls, I thought it was a real gritty performance, we took them really deep. Everyone talks about them (Broncos) being one of the big two. I thought we competed really hard and almost got them,” Herman said.

The attention now turns to Saturday night, in what is almost a must-win for the 2025 preliminary finalists.

Celebrating women in league round, the away side will also be pulling on their black and neon pink, with hints of blue jersey, and the additional name of a loved female in their lives on the back. For this squad, round three isn't just a regular game, it’s a moment to recognise all the women who have been instrumental in growing the game and in helping to pave the way for where female rugby league finds itself today.   

Playing their first away match of the season, Cronulla have a big task ahead as they enter enemy territory, with the Bulldogs also searching for their first two points.

Last year, in their one encounter, which was also played at Accor Stadium, a tough battle saw the Bulldogs cause a 24-14 upset of the finals-bound Sharks side.

Teagan Dymock will also face her old squad after playing in their inaugural NRLW team, and will match up against her old captain, Angelina Teakaraanga-Katoa. A highly physical battle is likely to get both sides fired up for the 70 minutes.

Old teammates also meeting once more are opposing fullbacks Jada Taylor and Andie Robinson, both made an impression on the NRLW in their respective roles, and will looing to bring that energy to the stage come Saturday night.

The Sharks v Bulldogs NRLW match, kicking off at 5.15pm tomorrow (Saturday) will be followed by the Bulldogs vs West Tigers in an NRL clash scheduled to get underway at 7:35pm. Find tickets here.