LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Penitani's influence drives Sharks to victory over Raiders
In a thrilling match in Canberra, former Jillaroos star Nakia Davis-Welsh made a triumphant NRLW debut for the Cronulla Sharks, scoring the decisive try to lead her team to a come-from-behind 24-12 victory over the Raiders.
Returning to the field after her standout performance as Australia's fullback in the 2017 World Cup and the birth of her two children, Davis-Welsh's 59th-minute try sparked the Sharks' turnaround from a 12-0 deficit.
A late addition to the wing by coach Tony Herman, Davis-Welsh not only crossed the try line but also made a crucial tackle on Raiders' centre Cheyelle Robins-Reti to prevent a potential score early in the second half.
The Raiders initially took the lead through Maddison Bartlett, who capitalized on a brilliant backline move orchestrated by McKenzie Wiki to notch her 21st NRLW try in the 15th minute.
Despite halfback Zahara Temara's absence due to a head injury assessment, winger Shakiah Tungai successfully converted Bartlett's try and added a penalty goal in the 19th minute to extend Canberra's advantage.
Trailing 8-0 at halftime, the Sharks faced further setback as centre Annessa Biddle's early error led to another Bartlett try shortly into the second half.
However, inspired by Penitani's heroics, Cronulla mounted a stunning comeback to seal the victory and maintain their unbeaten start to the season.