NRLW Match Preview: Round 6 v Titans

Author: Claire Stegbauer Sharks NRLW Reporter
Timestamp: Fri 30 Aug 2024, 11:07 AM

The Cronulla Sharks are heading into Round 6 of the NRLW with their confidence sky-high, boasting an undefeated record as they prepare to face the Gold Coast Titans at Cbus Super Stadium.

After a commanding 28-4 victory over the Dragons in Round 5, the Sharks are eager to extend their streak as they take on the Titans in their first game in Queensland this season.

Cronulla have been finding their flow as the season progresses, with their attacking prowess on full display in recent games. The cohesion in their spine, led by halves pairing Emma Tonegato and Tayla Preston, was particularly evident in their last outing against the Dragons. Despite early disruptions, including the season-ending knee injury to fullback Jada Taylor and the temporary absence of Tonegato, coach Tony Herman's squad has adapted remarkably well, now sitting four points clear at the top of the ladder.

This match against the Titans presents a new challenge, with the Sharks needing to adjust to the hot and humid Queensland conditions. However, their solid form and the consistency in their line-up should provide the stability to overcome this hurdle.

The Sharks have named an unchanged 17 for this clash, with Georgia Hannaway, Andie Robinson and Filomina Hanisi dropping off the extended bench in the 24-hour team update. Dominique du Toit is now the 18th player, while second-rower Talei Holmes also remains on the reserves list.

The Gold Coast will be a formidable opponent, especially on their home turf. The last time these teams met was in Round 3 last season at PointsBet Stadium, where the Titans edged out a close victory. Fresh off a dominant performance against the Roosters, they'll be desperate to replicate that result and topple the ladder leaders.

The Titans' attack, led by the likes of Jaime Chapman and Lauren Brown, is dangerous and capable of causing havoc if given space. With Lailani Montgomery stepping into the starting five-eighth role following Taliah Fuimaono's suspension, the Sharks will look to apply pressure to the new playmaking pairing and disrupt the Titans' rhythm.

The battle of the halves will be crucial, with Tonegato and Preston's established partnership likely to test the Titans' restructured line-up.

To remain unbeaten, the Sharks must continue to showcase their balanced approach, combining solid defence with their emerging attacking flair. A strong start will be vital, as the Titans are known for their ability to strike quickly.

As the business end of the season approaches, every game becomes crucial, and this Round 6 clash is no exception. The Sharks have the form, the team chemistry, and the momentum on their side, but will need to bring their A-game to outclass a determined Titans team hungry for an upset.

Kick-off is set for 11am. Tune into all the action live on Nine, 9Now, Kayo and Foxtel.

Round 6 - Round 6 - Saturday 31 Aug

Full Time

Titans

Sharks

Team Lists

Backs

Fullback for Titans is number 1 Evania Pelite

Fullback for Sharks is number 1 Cassie Staples
Winger for Titans is number 2 Georgia Grey

Winger for Sharks is number 2 Nakia Davis-Welsh
Centre for Titans is number 3 Jaime Chapman

Centre for Sharks is number 3 Tiana Penitani
Centre for Titans is number 4 Niall Williams-Guthrie

Centre for Sharks is number 4 Annessa Biddle
Winger for Titans is number 5 Emily Bass

Winger for Sharks is number 5 Georgia Ravics
Five-Eighth for Titans is number 18 Lailani Montgomery

Five-Eighth for Sharks is number 6 Emma Tonegato
Halfback for Titans is number 7 Lauren Brown

Halfback for Sharks is number 7 Tayla Preston

Forwards

Prop for Titans is number 8 Shannon Mato

Prop for Sharks is number 8 Ellie Johnston
Hooker for Titans is number 9 Brittany Breayley-Nati

Hooker for Sharks is number 9 Quincy Dodd
Prop for Titans is number 10 Jessika Elliston

Prop for Sharks is number 10 Holli Wheeler
2nd Row for Titans is number 11 Zara Canfield

2nd Row for Sharks is number 12 Rhiannon Byers
2nd Row for Titans is number 12 Shaylee Bent

2nd Row for Sharks is number 20 Talei Holmes
Lock for Titans is number 13 Georgia Hale

Lock for Sharks is number 13 Brooke Anderson

Interchange

Interchange for Titans is number 14 Lily-Rose Kolc

Interchange for Sharks is number 11 Vanessa Foliaki
Interchange for Titans is number 15 Laikha Clarke

Interchange for Sharks is number 14 Sharni Smale
Interchange for Titans is number 17 Matekino Gray

Interchange for Sharks is number 15 Chloe Saunders
Interchange for Titans is number 19 Hailee-Jay Ormond-Maunsell

Interchange for Sharks is number 17 Tegan Dymock