Cronulla defeated Canterbury 24-6 at Accor Stadium in front of 30,368 fans. The Sharks were in control for most of the game, setting up their win with a dominant first half and finishing strongly.
The Sharks started well, getting the first penalty of the game and putting early pressure on the Bulldogs. They were dealt a blow early on when Bronson Xerri was taken off with a head injury. However, this didn't slow them down.
After 27 minutes, the Sharks scored their first try through Billy Burns, with Nicho Hynes adding the conversion. Just five minutes later, Jesse Ramien crossed for another converted try, taking the score to 12-0. The Sharks kept pushing, and Blayke Brailey scored right before halftime, with Hynes converting again to make the score 18-0 at the break.
Canterbury came out of the sheds looking for a change in momentum. Six minutes into the second half, they found a spark when Enari Tuala scored a try after a long run. Matt Burton converted to bring the Bulldogs' score to six points.
However, the Sharks quickly responded. Daniel Atkinson scored a converted try after a break from Ronaldo Mulitalo, putting the Sharks ahead 24-6. This was the last scoring play of the game. Cronulla's defense held strong for the rest of the half, shutting down any comeback attempts from Canterbury.
The Sharks controlled the game for the full 80 minutes, scoring four tries to one. The win gives them a solid victory as they head into the finals.
Cronulla will host the Roosters in an elimination final at home next week, while Canterbury are off to Melbourne for an away qualifying final.