Sharks swallow Maitua for next season
January 2nd 2009 08:04
Out of all the clubs that could have signed Reni Maitua, it is ironic that the Sharks were the ones to get their hands on the fallen Bulldog, considering they are now on the verge of sacking fellow troubled star Greg Bird.
Indeed Maitua has ended speculation over his future by signing a one-year deal with the Cronulla Sharks.
The 26-year-old was sacked by the Bulldogs last December after a chequered stint at the club which was characterised by several misdemeanors.
It is believed that the opportunity to play under Cronulla coach Ricky Stuart was a factor in Maitua's decision - along with a preference to remain in Sydney.
His signature ends weeks of speculation in which four clubs were rumoured to be chasing him.
The Melbourne Storm, Nth Qld Cowboys and the South Sydney Rabbitohs were the other NRL sides interested in Maitua's services.
For the Sharks, it has now become a case of out with the bad and in with the, well, bad.
Cronulla will be hoping for a major boost in form from Maitua, considering they have given him a chance to resume a career that was well on hold at the Bulldogs.
After winning a Grand Final with Canterbury and playing Test football for Australia in 2006, Maitua's form plummeted soon after, with injury and off field disturbances taking their toll on the 26 year old.
Although he has a new club for next season, Maitua has only signed on for one year and will need to impress quickly if the Sharks are to renew his contract for 2010 and beyond.
Sure, he has the skills and the power to become a great success with a Cronulla side that play tough, no frills football.
Whether he has the desire and discipline to show that potential on the field remains to be seen.
Given his new lease on life as an NRL first grader, Maitua would be foolish to let this great opportunity slip at a Sharks club who too can forgive and forget, despite the ruthless approach they have taken on fallen star Greg Bird.
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