Sharks v Cowboys NRLW preview

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Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks (W) v North Queensland Cowboys (W) Saturday 11:00am at PointsBet Stadium, Woolooware / Dharawal

The Sharks and Cowboys will be looking at improving on their 2023 seasons in their first meeting of 2024

The Sharks enter the new season with a sense of optimism and confidence. Captain Tiana Penitani, the reigning Sharks NRLW Player of the Year, will lead a team featuring a mix of experienced stars and eager rookies. Despite a sixth-placed finish in their maiden season, Cronulla has shown signs of a formidable outfit. Their trial match against the star-studded Roosters ended in a 20-all draw, highlighting their attacking prowess. Leading 12-0 at halftime, the Sharks showcased their depth by resting key players like Emma Tonegato and Quincy Dodd in the second half.

In that trial, Cronulla's attack was dynamic, with Georgia Ravics, Jada Taylor, and Annessa Biddle combining effectively. Second-rower Talei Holmes and captain Tiana Penitani also contributed tries, demonstrating the team's ability to capitalise on opportunities. Head coach Tony Herman has named a star-studded line-up for the season opener, featuring young gun Jada Taylor at fullback and Sky Blues player Emma Tonegato in the halves alongside Tayla Preston. Georgia Hannaway's inclusion on the interchange bench adds further depth to the squad.

The Cowboys are also riding a wave of confidence into Round 1, buoyed by new coaches Ricky Henry and Steve Georgallis. Their trial match against the Gold Coast Titans resulted in a commanding 28-14 victory, with the team showing impressive cohesion and attacking flair. Key playmaker Keira Dibb was instrumental, having a hand in all first-half tries. The Cowboys took a 24-4 lead into halftime thanks to tries from Jasmine Peters, Fran Goldthorp, Krystal Blackwell, Tahlulah Tillett, and Tiana Raftstrand-Smith. Despite sitting out most of their starters in the second half, the Cowboys managed to maintain control, with only one try conceded.

The back five demonstrated significant speed and agility, posing a threat to any opposition defence. Recruit Jakiya Whitfeld will start in the centres, while English star Goldthorp returns to fullback after recovering from injury. The line-up also includes Sky Blues squad member Kirra Dibb at halfback and Queensland Maroons series winners Emma Manzelmann at hooker and Makenzie Weale at prop.

Both teams have shown promising signs in the lead-up to the season, and this opening-round clash is set to be a thrilling encounter. The Sharks will look to build on their solid foundation, while the Cowboys aim to make a strong statement under their new coaching regime.

Last meeting: Round 5 2023 - Cowboys 12 Sharks 40

Who to watch: Coming off the back of a Sky Blues campaign, Emma Tonegato's versatility and experience allows her to excel in multiple positions. She is paired with Tayla Preston in the halves for the Sharks, where her vision and playmaking skills can direct the team's attack. Tonegato's ability to break lines and create opportunities for her teammates will be crucial.

The new Cowboys recruit, 2023 NRLW Dally M Winger of the Year Jakiya Whitfield, hailed as a potential buy of the season, will make her club debut in the centres. Her ability to break tackles and create space for outside backs will be a significant advantage for the Cowboys' attack. 

MY TIP: Choosing a winner in the first round is always hard and even harder when there has been minimal opportunity to see the teams line up in trials before the season begins. On paper, the Sharks look like the stronger team; however, the Cowboys were the big winners in their trial match against last year's grand finalists. I'm going to go against the bookies and go with the Cowboys, as their attack was super slick, and if the Sharks aren't on their game, they'll be scoring points across the park. North Qld by 8.

1. Jada Taylor 2. Cassie Staples 3. Tiana Penitani 4. Annessa Biddle 5. Georgia Ravics 6. Emma Tonegato 7. Tayla Preston 8. Ellie Johnston 9. Quincy Dodd 10. Holli Wheeler 11. Talei Holmes 12. Rhiannon Byers 13. Brooke Anderson 14. Georgia Hannaway 15. Chloe Saunders 16. Vanessa Foliaki 17. Tegan Dymock 18. Manilita Takapautolo

1. Francesca Goldthorp 2. Krystal Blackwell 3. Jakiya Whitfeld 4. Jasmine Peters 5. Vitalina Naikore 6. Tahlulah Tillett 7. Kirra Dibb 8. Tallisha Harden 14. Alisha Foord 10. Makenzie Weale 11. China Polata 12. Tiana Raftstrand-Smith 13. Bree Chester 9. Emma Manzelmann 15. Lily Peacock 16. Harata Butler 17. Essay Banu 18. Shaniah Power

Referees: Damian Brady; Sideline Officials: Karra-Lee Nolan, Daniel Luttringer; Video Referees: Kasey Badger;