Sharks break losing streak in unconvincing fashion

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South Sydney Rabbitohs v Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks

The Cronulla Sharks have put a run of poor form behind them as they ran out 26-16 victors over the South Sydney Rabbitohs in front of nearly 50,000 fans at Perth Stadium in the second match of the double header.

The Sharks were the first side to go close to scoring when Connor Tracey was denied when he got the ball down short of the line before losing control of it. The no try didn't hurt the Sharks though as down the left again they were able to find space when a questionable pass put Mawene Hiroti into space to score.

Taking advantage of the momentum, the Sharks put on some class as Sione Katoa left Latrell Mitchell going in every direction but the right one as his footwork beat Mitchell and Cronulla extended their lead.

Inside the final 10 minutes of the first half, the Sharks added a penalty goal to extend their lead out to 14-0 after Latrell Mitchell's short dropout attempt didn't go the required 10m. Souths had an effort from Alex Johnston rejected by the bunker after the superstar winger went into touch before grounding the ball.

The second half started as a repeat of the first half with the Sharks dominating and going over just five minutes into the second half as Braydon Trindall picked up the first of his double when an isolated Tyrone Munro charged out of the line and left Trindall with a stroll to the line.

Trindall's second try was both through luck and skill as his kick that was intended for the sideline was kept alive by some great work from Mawene Hiroti to keep the ball alive and then the second kick from Sifa Talakai ricocheted off Latrell Mitchell for Braydon Trindall to pick up a surprise second.

The Rabbitohs continued to spread the ball left and although errors cost them more points they were able to get over as for the first time the Souths attack had a focal point and it was to go left and Alex Johnston wasn't denied for a second time.

Sharks fans were left sitting nervously as Souths started to get some momentum and it was down the left hand-side again when Alex Johnston got into space before kicking back inside for Lachlan Illias who scored and the Bunnies had closed the gap to 14 points.

Neither side could complete a set over the next five minute period although it was down the left where Souths found more joy when Isaiah Tass was able to score a much needed four pointer to close the gap even though Latrell Mitchell hit the post with his conversion.

Errors stopped either side with packing a punch although the NRL's handling of foul play will come under more scrutiny after Tom Burgess was given 10 minutes in the sin bin rather than being sent off like other incidents this week for a shot on Tom Hazelton.

Despite both sides getting more chances, the Sharks were able to hold on for their 26-16 victory. Next weekend, Souths have yet another interstate home game when they host the Dragons at Barlow Park in Cairns whilst the Sharks head back to the shire against the Titans on Friday night.