A strong second half performance from the Cronulla Sharks meant that they powered pass the hapless Eels. After that performance the blue and golds remain rooted to the bottom of the table.
The Sharks started with early pressure on the Eels' line but were unable to convert their pressure in to points. The Eels, whilst working it off their own line, were given room on their left flank and they cashed in. Paulo ran a straight line towards Todd Carney that also gained the interest of Ben Pomeroy. Paulo slipped the ball to Morgan who had too much pace for Pomeroy and Stapleton. He drew Ryan and completed the simple pass to Sio.
The Eels led 6-0 and held the lead for over 20 minutes until former Eel Jeff Robson scored. But the Eels began piling on the pressure and Brayden Williame touched down for his first try in the NRL. With a penalty goal just before half time, the Eels led 14-6. But that was to be the last enjoyment for the Eels.
Cronulla and NSW captain, Paul Gallen, crashed over just after half time and that changed the course of the match. Before the Eels could recover Jeff Robson had his second and the points continued to flow for Cronulla.
Poor discipline and poor ball-handling cost the Eels dearly. Time and time again the Eels invited Cronulla into their half and the Sharks didn't need a second invitation. In the end Cronulla looked the clear class above that they are on paper.
The final score stood at 32-14.
Replies
I thought the Eels played well in the 1st half! and were the better side. I cannot believe why the two penalties were given early in the 2nd half which initiated the Paul Gallen try as that was the start of the downfall of the Eels. I still reckon there were to many penalties given to the Sharks in the 2nd half which cost the Eels the game especially confidence and momentum wise and really turned the tide of possession towards the Sharks. I'd like to know how many tries the Sharks scored from penalties especially at crucial moments in the game. I know the Sharks had more experienced players and were expected to win, but nevertheless they certainly got some assistance.
We sucked but that first penalty after half time was bullshit, then they go in off a forward pass. We get a penalty and Gallen has his hand on the ball it comes lose and no penalty. We have been getting pinged all season for the same thing.
They get a few more penalties and we hardly see the ball for 10 mins and its all over by then. The refs didn't cost us the game but as usual they made it hard for us.
We made Ryan look like Inglis, thank god he will not be ripping us a new one next week. I could see him scoring 5 tries setting about 14 up and running for 800m.
PS: based on second half, keep Terepo, Mannah, Fui and Lussick, Sandow too I suppose, and Morgan. None of the rest.