Of all the unlikely types to offer Cronulla hope of one of the biggest upsets in NRL finals history, the weatherman was looking good earlier this week.
A forecast of sideways rain from Thursday to Saturday’s grand final qualifier against the Panthers, and a Heavy 8 Accor track offered a soggy, closer to level, playing field.
Phil Gould has explained the secrets behind taking down the defending premiers.
One of Penrith’s few weaknesses has been the wet – they’re two from six when playing in rain over the past two years – and the Sharks own home ground is known as rugby league’s Bermuda Triangle for a reason.
The goalpost flags have been known to fly in completely opposite directions, Sharknados roll in and opposition teams can disappear.
Unfortunately for Cronulla, the forecast has been dialled back, and the preliminary final is set for overcast but dry conditions.
Still, for the Sharks to reverse a 70-0 scoreline in their last two clashes with Penrith, a wet weather approach is as good as any. And knocking off the Panthers as rank outsiders would be one for the Bermuda Triangle Hall of Fame.
Tricks and kicks: The balance between Hynes and Trindall
The best game of Braydon Trindall’s career delivered three tries from his boot against North Queensland last week as he took the lion’s share of kicking duties.
Not until the 20th minute did Hynes kick in general play, and by halftime he and Trindall had shared the play making straight down the middle – Trindall had 41 touches of the ball, Hynes 40 and the Sharks led 24-0.
Be the first to comment