LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
The Sharks faced a challenging matchup against the undefeated Roosters, suffering a disappointing 40-10 loss at Polytec Stadium on Thursday night.
From the outset, the Roosters displayed their top form, demonstrating why they are the minor premiers. Their energy and intensity remained high throughout the game, even after losing star halfback Taryn Aiken in the first half.
Quickly establishing their presence, the Roosters struck first with a slick sequence that saw Jayme Fressard cross the line on the wing. In response, prop Ellie Johnson's powerful run enabled the Sharks to advance, but an error in defense prevented them from capitalizing on their first try-scoring opportunity.
In a setback for the Sharks, playmaker Aiken was assisted off the field due to a knee injury just 15 minutes into the match. The Roosters quickly capitalized on a Cronulla error; Jocelyn Kelleher's cross-field kick allowed Fressard to soar over the line for her second try of the evening. Following a series of impressive plays, Mia Wood added to the Roosters' tally with their third try.
Returning from an oral fracture, center Isabelle Kelly then scored a try, slamming the ball home after a perfectly timed tap-on from her teammate. Just before the halftime break, interchange forward Amber Hall pounded through the defense to score once more, leaving the Sharks trailing 24-0 at the siren.