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BroncoKiwi
Sharks lose to Broncos - but it's not all doom and gloom
July 26th 2008 03:34
By Matthew Johns
The Cronulla Sharks were beaten 18-12 in a bruising encounter with the Broncos in the first match of this weekends NRL action, but something special is brewing at the club.
The game developed into the kind of clash you would expect the Sharks to edge ahead in. An arm wrestle where an intensified Broncos attack seemed doomed not to convert into points on the board.
Right from the outset, the home side declared their respect for the visitors by taking the easy two points following a messy play the ball in the Sharks half. It revealed an expectation of a close game where easy points could not be ignored.
The Sharks impressed with steely defence that we've become accustomed to, but their attacked didn't fire until they allowed a little desperation into their game.
Isaac De Gois found a new gear in the second half and inspired some excellent attacking flair. With inspired performances from fullback Brett Kearney, halves Brett Seymour and Brett Kimmorley they looked to be on track for a much deserved win. Misi Taulapapa must have a twin brother as he popped up all over the field, and was a saviour in defence.
But is wasn't meant to be. The Broncos were up 8-0 at half time following a touch of brilliance from Kiwi International Greg Eastwood, who cleaned up a hot potato and chipped ahead for a Denan Kemp try.
They extended after the break to 14-0 with power play from Sam Thaiday close to the line.
That seemed to wake the Sharks who went away from predictable set plays and began to play a more natural game. And it payed off - Brett Kearney snagging a well worked try to bring the score back to 14-6.
It looked like it was all on... but the Broncos had other ideas. Greg Eastwood completed his best performance to date, dotting down near the posts after slotting into halfback for injured Peter Wallace. The lead was push out, but Michael Ennis missed a sitter two points in front of the posts and it left a sliver of hope for the Sharks who were down 18-6.
Heart rates were increased when the improved Shark attack again found space and capitalised with a Grant Millington try. The hurried Covell conversion bounced off the post but made it over the crossbar.
And for the 3 remaining minutes a miracle comeback beckoned. But the clock won the race and the Broncos edged out the inspired revival to steal the 2 points.
The Sharks look ready to fire though with sorely missed Greg Bird on track to take to the field next week.
If they continue with the passion they found in the second half, I can't see how the Dragons will beat them at Toyota Stadium. Look out - here come the Sharks...
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Results for all games can be found HERE
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