Sharks hold on to edge out Broncos

v BYE

Cronulla blew Brisbane off the park in the first half, and despite a valiant second half fight back, the Sharks held on to win 30-28 at Southern Cross Group Stadium this afternoon.

The Sharks were easily the better side in the first half, jumping out to a 28-6 half time lead. Tries to Chad Townsend, James Maloney, Paul Gallen and a first half double to Sosaia Feki shocked the Broncos, and left them scratching their heads going into the break.

Gallen's try was particularly spectacular, as he chased through on a James Maloney kick and planted the ball down under the posts with every bit the grace of a fullback.

Gallen's other big play of the match, however, was a less glowing endorsement, as he landed with an elbow on the face of a Broncos player. Although he was not penalised at the time, he may have a case to answer with the match committee.

The half time break was a lifesaver for the Broncos, and in the second half almost all of the play ran their way. A try to Corey Oates just after the break set the tone, and tries to James Roberts (47th minute), Sam Thaiday (62nd minute) and Corey Parker (72nd minute) got them back into the game.

In the end, goalkicking proved to be the difference. James Maloney kicked five goals from four attempts, while Corey Parker missed two of his attempts.

Both sides will have the week off this weekend for the representative round. Round 10 sees the Sharks take on the hapless Knights, while the Broncos will meet the Sea Eagles on Saturday night as part of a double header at Suncorp Stadium.