LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
The Sharks came up short in an epic showdown against the Dolphins at PointsBet Stadium, with Maroons superstar Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow putting on a five-star performance to lead his team to a thrilling 30-28 victory.
The Dolphins, fueled by the outstanding performances of centre Herbie Farnworth and five-eighth Kodi Nikorima, came out firing and raced to a commanding 22-0 lead.
However, the Sharks clawed their way back into the game, only for the Dolphins to seal the win with a special play from Hammer on the hour mark.
A late scare from the Sharks, as Nicho Hynes had a chance to take the game to golden point, added to the drama.
The Dolphins struck first in the 11th minute, with veteran forward Kenny Bromwich muscling through three defenders to set up a try for Max Plath.
Isaako's successful conversion made it 6-0.
Farnworth added another try three minutes later after a mistake from Ronaldo Mulitalo gave the visitors prime field position.
In the midst of Dolphins' dominance, Jack Bostock displayed incredible strength to score their third try despite strong defense from Will Kennedy and Blayke Brailey.
A clever play from young halfback Isaiya Katoa set up Nikorima for a perfect grubber kick, allowing Jake Averillo to touch down for his sixth try of the season.
Isaako's conversion extended the lead to 22-0.
Ultimately, the Sharks fell short of completing a miraculous comeback, as the Dolphins held on for a memorable victory at PointsBet Stadium.