Though no team like being called “chokers,” Cronulla runs the risk of earning the title if it has another finals fadeout in 2024.
The Sharks have been playing well in recent regular seasons and have a roster that rivals that of many of the league’s top clubs.
However, in the crucial end-of-season games, the Shire boys have a startling record of losing their last six finals games in a row.
The Sharks were the superior team for the majority of the game when they played the Roosters in the opening round of the playoffs last year.
Roosters captain James Tedesco looked to have the game in the bag when he was sin binned in the second half.
However, they lacked the confidence and killer instinct, and the Roosters managed to rally for a one-point victory, sending the Sharks out of the finals for the second time in a row.
When looking at the entire season, the Sharks had little issue dominating the clubs lower up the ladder.
However, they only managed three wins over top-eight teams over the course of the 27 games; in order to have an impact this year, they will need to improve on this.
HYNES CRIED OUT AND DRIEDOne of the best players in the league and the main man for the Sharks, Nicho Hynes has not had much support from the team this summer.The team let go of veteran Matt Moylan, who may be past his prime but is still a seasoned player who might relieve Hynes of some of the playmaking duties.
As Hynes’ half partner, Braydon Trindall is now under pressure, which might be difficult for the Sharks.
Although Trindall is a gifted player with his own techniques, is he prepared to guide the team through more than 20 rounds of arduous play during the season?
Time will tell, but in order to keep the Sharks in the top four, Hynes will need to step up his game significantly.
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