Looming breakup sparks Sharks’ NSW Cup win

Cronulla’s tumultuous season ended on a high note, as the imminent breakup of their NSW Cup team proved a massive motivator in their 36-8 grand final win.

The minor premiers overcame a tardy start and some scorching weather to score six tries to two at ANZ Stadium on Sunday.

Still waiting for their maiden first-grade title, the Sharks collected their first piece of lower-grade silverware in 17 years, as the players toiled in temperatures well over 30 degrees.

Cronulla, who are a feeder side to Melbourne as well as the Sharks and included four players attached to the Storm, scored 18 unanswered points after the break.

It was a joyous end to a season in which the ASADA investigations hung over the club, still reaching the NRL finals in addition to winning the NSW Cup.

“I think it’s a credit to the coaching staff and the players at all the levels this year that through all the turmoil, they’ve been able to focus on the core job and that’s playing football,” Cronulla chairman Damian Keogh told AAP.

The Sharks were driven by the knowledge that it was the last game at the club for several key players including captain and five-eighth Chad Townsend, centre Stewart Mills and lock Tyrone Peachey.

“(It was a) massive motivation because it’s the last time we’re playing together potentially if we don’t play together when we’re older,” Townsend said.

The Wolves scored first through giant Fijian winger Eto Nabuli and made the early running.

Five-eighth Penanai Manumalealii bamboozled two defenders with a big left foot step to get the Sharks on the board.

Penrith-bound Peachey was next to cross for Cronulla, but Nabuli palmed off a defender to notch his second try and get Windsor within four points.

That was as close as they were able to get, as Cronulla took control, with their forwards getting the upper hand and Townsend directing play well.

Michael Lichaa burrowed over for a timely try just before halftime, as the Sharks headed for the sheds with an 18-8 buffer.

In the second half, centre Kirisome Auva’a crossed twice and forward Junior Moors once, as Cronulla took even greater control and Wolves back-rower Anthony Cherrington was placed on report for a high shot on Mills.

“We did have our chances and didn’t grab them at the right time. They were too good on the day,” said Wolves’ coach Guy Missio.

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