Second half fightback comes up short for Flegg Sharks
A second half comeback from the Jersey Flegg Sharks has fallen just short, with the young Cronulla side beaten 14-12 in the under-21 Grand Final by the Bulldogs.
In a match of high intensity, the Sharks fell behind 14-0 in the first half, before two second half tries, the later coming with just five minutes remaining, gave them hope of a come-from-behind win, however despite having their chances deep in opposition territory were unable to get across the line to tip the result in their favour.
It was a disappointing end to an outstanding season, one in which the Sharks won 10 straight games to reach the competition decider.
The first period of the match was all Bulldogs, on the back of a strong kicking game from half back Cassius Tia and after Sharks fullback Siteni Taukamo spent time in the sin bin, the Canterbury team built a 10-point after the opening 17 minutes of the match.
A third Bulldogs try made it 14-0 and after defending grimly on the stroke of half time the Sharks would have been pleased to get the opportunity to regroup after being forced to defend their line for long periods.
The teams continued to press after the break, with both refusing to crack, until an individual effort from Taj Ford, the Sharks five eight slicing through on halfway before beating the full back to cross under the uprights.
The conversion made it 14-6 with the second Sharks try, scored by winger Kristian Dixon following a clever kick from Noah Penitani, the try converted by Pollard, and the Cronulla team had given themselves a chance at 14-12 with time running out.
Despite their best efforts, the Bulldogs scrambled desperately on their line, in keeping the Sharks at bay to claim the 2024 Jersey Flegg Premiership.
The Sharks were well served by Dixon and Penitani on their right side, Ford was dangerous with ball in hand and kicked strongly, hooker Chaz Jarvis was busy throughout, while the pack lead by skipper Sam McCullough, along with props Lachlan Crouch and Felix Faatili worked hard against the physical Bulldogs forwards.
SHARKS 12
Kristian Dixon, Taj Ford tries, Riley Pollard 2 goals
Lost to
BULLDOGS 14
