Cronulla Sharks playmaker Braydon Trindall led his side to a hoodoo busting 26-18 defeat of the Cowboys to set up a grand final qualifier against Penrith next week. Trindall scored two tries and laid on another as the Sharks stormed to a 24-0 halftime lead and hung on to end a seven-match losing streak in finals matches.
Taking on responsibility for Cronulla's kicking game, Trindall forced four goal line dropouts and produced 20 kicks totalling 641 metres.
North Queensland fought back in the second half, with Valentine Holmes scoring two tries but he and fellow Cowboys back Kyle Feldt finished their last match for the club on the sideline after being injured.
The first penalty in the game was a penalty try after Cowboys prop Rueben Cotter took out Trindall as he chased a kick in the 14th minute and both referee Ashley Klein and the Bunker believed the Sharks playmaker would have scored.
The try gave the Sharks an immediate boost and Cam McInnes crossed two minutes later after winger Ronaldo Mulitalo tapped back a Nicho Hynes bomb for Teig Wilton, who passed to his skipper to score.
Wilton looked set to be the next to score after a long range Mulitalo break but the Kiwi winger's pass was touched in flight by Jake Clifford.
Trindall then finished a brilliant Sharks try after launching a bomb that bounced up for centre Jesse Ramien, who produced a flick pass for the five-eighth to score.
Mulitalo extended the lead after Trindall combined with centre Kayal Iro to create an overlap for the star winger to simply stroll over out wide just before halftime and Sharks fans were thinking about meeting Penrith next weekend.
However, it was a different Cowboys team in the second half as Dragons-bound centre Val Holmes inspired a stunning comeback that fell just short.
Holmes sparked the fightback when he stepped inside Toby Rudolf and Will Kennedy to score in the 42nd minute.
Cotter scored in the 55th minute after Sione Katoa spilled a Tom Dearden bomb and the Maroons five-eighth picked up before passing to his unmarked co-captain.
Holmes scored his second in the 70th minute but suffered a knee injury in the process and later had to be assisted from the field, joining departing winger Kyle Feldt on the sideline.
The Comeback That Fell Short
The Cowboys' valiant effort to claw back from a 24-point deficit at half-time was ultimately thwarted by a few key factors. Firstly, the Sharks' ability to turn the Cowboys' mistakes into points was relentless. The Cowboys' errors, particularly in defending high kicks and offloads, proved costly, allowing Cronulla to maintain a steady flow of points and momentum. Secondly, the late penalty awarded to Cronulla after Scott Drinkwater's drop-out went out on the full served as a crucial turning point, effectively extinguishing the Cowboys' hopes of a complete comeback.
While the Cowboys fought hard and showcased their resilience, the Sharks' clinical execution, especially in the first half, proved too much to overcome. Their ability to exploit the Cowboys' weaknesses, combined with Trindall's exceptional performance, secured their victory.
Trindall Shines Brightly
With all eyes on Nicho Hynes, it was his halves partner Trindall who delivered for the Sharks. He assumed control of the Sharks attack, showcasing his versatility and composure. Trindall's ability to distribute the ball, execute effective kicks, and finish strong tries propelled Cronulla to victory.
His two tries and two try assists highlighted his impact on the game. The first of his tries, awarded as a penalty try after a strong run by Trindall, was a crucial turning point, setting the tone for a dominant first-half performance. His second try, a skillful maneuver after receiving a flick pass from Ramien, underscored his ability to capitalize on opportunities. Trindall's performance showcased his growth as a player and his crucial role in the Sharks' finals campaign.
What's Next?
The Sharks' victory secures their place in the preliminary finals where they will face the formidable Penrith Panthers. The Panthers, reigning premiers, present a significant challenge for Cronulla, but the Sharks' recent victory will serve as a confidence booster and a testament to their resilience. The upcoming clash promises to be a highly anticipated affair with the winner advancing to the grand final.
The Cowboys, however, face the disappointment of a season ending earlier than they would have hoped. The loss serves as a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of finals football. Despite their valiant comeback attempt, they were unable to overcome their first-half errors and ultimately succumbed to the Sharks' dominance.
The Cowboys, however, can take pride in their impressive regular season performance, which saw them secure a top five finish. With a talented roster and a determined coaching staff, they are well-positioned to challenge for the title in 2025.
Looking Ahead
The Sharks' victory brings a sense of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming preliminary finals clash against Penrith. The Panthers, known for their ruthlessness and consistency, will provide a formidable test for Cronulla. But with Trindall's inspired performance and the confidence they've gained, the Sharks are ready to fight tooth and nail for a place in the grand final. The stage is set for a thrilling showdown next week, with two of the NRL's most formidable teams ready to battle it out for a chance to compete for the ultimate prize.
