Round 7: Sharks v Roosters NRLW preview
Can the Sharks continue their winning streak?
The Cronulla Sharks continued their impressive run in the 2024 NRLW season, cementing their status as serious title contenders with a commanding 22-6 victory over the Gold Coast Titans. The Sharks dominated from kick-off, displaying a well-organised and disciplined approach that has become their hallmark this season. In the hot conditions at Cbus Super Stadium, the Sharks ran in four tries to the Titans' one, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive resilience. A key to their success was the tactical brilliance of halfback Tayla Preston, who consistently pinned the Titans deep in their own half with a series of pinpoint kicks, effectively controlling the tempo of the game.
The Sydney Roosters faced a tough challenge last week but managed to turn the tide after a slow start to secure a 34-20 victory over the Canberra Raiders. The game began with the Raiders taking early control, racing to a 10-0 lead within the first ten minutes. It wasn't until the 21st minute that the Roosters found their footing, with Amber Hall crossing the line to get them on the scoreboard. This breakthrough sparked a resurgence, as the Roosters quickly added two more tries, giving them a six-point lead heading into halftime. After the break, the Roosters maintained their momentum with two quick tries within the first ten minutes of the second half, extending their lead to 28-10. Although the Raiders fought back, the Roosters' defence held firm and Tarryn Aiken sealed the game with a length-of-the-field try. Aiken's all-around performance earned her the commissioner's medal as the player of the match. The victory sees the Sharks extend their unbeaten streak to six games this season and eight games in total, carrying over from 2023. With their captain, Tiana Penitani, in fine form and winger Georgia Ravics scoring doubles in consecutive matches, the Sharks are firing on all cylinders. As they head into their next match against the Sydney Roosters, Cronulla will be looking to maintain their perfect record and further solidify their position at the top of the NRLW ladder.
On the other hand, the Sydney Roosters come into this game with something to prove. Despite a convincing 34-20 win over the Canberra Raiders last week, the Roosters have been inconsistent this season, already suffering two losses and conceding 32 more points than the Sharks. The loss of Millie Elliott to suspension after a high tackle incident could leave a gap in their defence that the Sharks will look to exploit. This matchup pits the Sharks' formidable defence against the Roosters' unpredictable but potent attack, setting the stage for an intriguing battle. With the Sharks aiming to maintain their unbeaten streak and the Roosters eager to demonstrate their credentials against one of the competition's heavyweights, fans can expect a fiercely contested game with plenty on the line.
Last meeting: Round 4 2023 - Sharks 12 Roosters 36
Who to watch: Sharks' fullback Cassie Staples has done a stellar job since replacing injured Jada Taylor in Round 2. Playing on the wing before making the move out the back, Staples is a threat in attack and solid in defence.
Roosters second-rower Olivia Kernick was a powerhouse in their win over the Raiders last week. Running over 160 metres and breaking tackles for fun, she helped get the Roosters attack on the front foot.
MY TIP: Cronulla are on an absolute roll this year, and it's hard to see anyone stopping them. In saying that, though, if anyone could do it, it would be this Roosters' side. The loss of Millie Elliot and an unchanged Sharks side will make it tricky for the tri-colours. I'm going with the Sharkies to win this one in a fight to the death. Sharks by 4.
