Sharks v Dragons preview

Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks v St. George Illawarra Dragons
Remondis Stadium - Sunday 4:00pm

Two last-start losers do battle in the shire.

Having strung together three straight wins prior to last week, the Sharks will be eager to get back in the winners circle after a disappointing display against the Sea Eagles. Going down 28-16 at Brookvale, Cronulla will be boosted by the return of skipper Paul Gallen as well as hooker Michael Ennis. The Sharks look set to be without forward Chris Heighington after the former premiership winner was cited for a dangerous throw, however he still may feature if he can successfully overturn the decision at the judiciary. The Sharks will be eager to make amends for their Round 12 showing against the Dragons, copping a massive 42-6 defeat at Kogarah Oval.

The Dragons will be hoping the traditional rivalry sees a change of fortune after slumping to four-consecutive losses following their last win, ironically over the Sharks. With Josh Dugan and Trent Merrin expected back from Origin duty, the merged venture will be keen to make amends for their last performance in Wollongong against the Cowboys. Among other changes made by coach Paul McGregor; Justin Hunt retains his place in the side, but will play wing in place of Yaw Kiti Glymin, while in-form back-rowers Will Matthews and Joel Thompson also return. Leeson Ah Mau will play his 100th NRL game after debuting with the Warriors in 2009.

Last meeting: Round 12 2015 - St. George Illawarra Dragons 42 Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks 6

Who to watch: Having joined the Sharks from the Dragons at the start of 2015, much has been expected of Gerard Beale. Failing to cross for a try so far this season, Beale will need to improve his attack if Cronulla are to continue their climb up the premiership ladder. With Jack Bird all but certain to move into the centres next season, Beale will have extra motivation to ensure he remains in first grade which could spell trouble for his former club on Sunday.

After an unsuccessful stint at Parramatta yielded a single appearance in first grade last year, Justin Hunt will be eager to prove he is capable of performing after impressing against North Queensland. Running for over 200 metres last week, the former Rabbitoh will be keen to prove he is just as dangerous on the wing which could spell trouble for Cronulla. While he has only managed 15 games in first grade since 2012, Hunt has shown plenty of potential in limited game time and may just be a key player in the Dragons finals run.

The favourite: Despite losing their past three games, the Dragons are expected to come away with the win.

My tip: The Dragons should prove too strong for Cronulla despite playing away from home. Dragons by 6.

1. Michael Gordon 2. Sosaia Feki 3. Gerard Beale 4. Ricky Leutele 5. Valentine Holmes 6. Jack Bird 7. Jeff Robson 8. Andrew Fifita 9. Michael Ennis 10. Matt Prior 11. Luke Lewis 12. Wade Graham 13. Paul Gallen
Interchange: 14. Jayson Bukuya 15. Ben Barba 16. David Fifita 17. Sam Tagataese 20. Chris Heighington

1. Josh Dugan 2. Justin Hunt 3. Euan Aitken 4. Peter Mata'utia 5. Jason Nightingale 6. Gareth Widdop 7. Benji Marshall 8. Leeson Ah Mau 9. Mitch Rein 10. Ben Creagh 11. Will Matthews 12. Joel Thompson 13. Mike Cooper
Interchange: 14. George Rose 16. Jake Marketo 17. Heath L'Estrange 24. Mark Ioane

Referees: Gavin Badger, Alan Shortall; Sideline Officials: Steve Carrall, Chris Sutton; Video Referees: Steve Chiddy, Luke Phillips;

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