Cronulla Sharks 2009 season preview
March 5th 2009 02:21
The Lowdown
It was once again a case of so close yet so far for the Cronulla Sharks in season 2008. Ricky Stuart's men were ideally placed to reach their fourth Grand Final after confronting a Melbourne team without captain Cameron Smith.
But in the Preliminary final against the Storm, the Sharks capitulated badly, losing 30-0 to a side that were beaten 40-0 the following week against the Sea Eagles.
It was a very disappointing way to finish season 2008 for a Sharks team that finished third on the ladder and who were playing their best football at the right time of the season.
Despite finishing last season on a low note, the Sharks have good reason to enter 2009 with optimism.
2009 prospects
The Sharks enter 2009 with arguably the most mobile backrow in the NRL which counts with captain Paul Gallen and new inclusions Reni Maitua and Anthony Tupou.
Tupou in particular has the potential to be the buy of the season. His skill with the footy in hand is only rivalled by Eels lock Feleti Mateo.
Tupou's offloading ability will play a key role in the Sharks improving their attack this year.
Cronulla's offence last season was the worst in the NRL, scoring only 75 tries.
Although they did brilliantly well to cover up that statistic throughout the majority of 2008 through their defence, the Sharks need to score more points if they are to have realistic hopes of winning a maiden premiership.
Indeed Cronulla will also make do with former Dragons player Trent Barrett, who has finished his tenure in Wigan.
Despite several years out of NRL competition, Barrett still possesses the class needed to fill the boots of departed half Brett Kimmorley.
On his day, Barrett is one of the most dynamic running halves in Rugby League and will provide the Sharks with a more direct approach in terms of how their attack is run.
One feels that if the Sharks backrow remains injury free, and Barrett finds his feet quickly, the Sharks should have hopes of a top four finish.
Coach Ricky Stuart has turned the Sharks into a respected unit, which was emphasised by their home and away record last year.
The sharks won nine matches at home last season to place them as the second best team playing locally.
Their away record was sublime as well, losing only four matches to leave them as the NRL's best performed team last season away from home.
Cronulla also won the most matches by 12 points or less, indicating their great ability to hold on when things get tough.
Prediction
The Sharks have the team necessary to finally claim its maiden premiership. Although they are no certainties, Cronulla will fancy themselves greatly given the way they performed in close matches last season.
If they are to win a premiership however, their attitude in the finals needs to change big-time judging from their 30-0 loss to Melbourne.
Regardless, they should be genuine premierships contenders in 2009.
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