LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
In a devastating blow to the Cronulla Sharks, sharks.com.au reports that they suffered a narrow 22-20 defeat at the hands of the Penrith Panthers in their round 22 clash.
Despite leading for the majority of the match, the Sharks were unable to hold on as the Panthers scored a try with less than three minutes remaining, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat.
This heartbreaking finish dealt a major blow to the Sharks' hopes of securing a spot in the Finals.
The game began with the Sharks displaying a high level of energy, scoring two tries in the opening 15 minutes through winger Kristian Dixon and backrower Henry O'Kane, giving them a comfortable 10-0 lead.
The Sharks continued to dominate, with hard-working middle forward Lachlan Crouch crashing over from close range, extending their lead to 16-0.
However, the Panthers fought back, with fullback Liam Ison scoring the first of his two tries before halftime, reducing the deficit to 16-6.
Ison's second try early in the second half brought the Panthers even closer at 16-10.
In the 43rd minute, the Panthers scored again and successfully converted the try, leveling the scores at 16-all.