In an essential elimination final, the Cronulla Sharks face off against the North Queensland Cowboys, both teams eager to correct their disappointing end-of-season performances.
As they enter this critical match, neither side is in ideal form.
The Sharks had a favorable path toward the finals, positioning themselves for a top-four finish several weeks ago. However, their performance recently has left much to be desired.
Instead of capitalizing on their schedule against teams in the lower rankings, they managed to secure only one victory in their last four matches.
Their downward trend began with a shocking loss to the last-placed side at Kogarah, followed by a defeat to the Canberra Raiders, during which Braydon Trindall sustained an injury.
Despite a fleeting victory against the Gold Coast Titans, they faltered again, losing to the Parramatta Eels and the Melbourne Storm, thereby concluding their regular season on a low note.
While the Sharks are undoubtedly more capable than what their recent results suggest, they will need to elevate their game against the Cowboys, who recently received some positive news from the NRL judiciary.
The Cowboys will welcome back Reuben Cotter after a successful hearing, but they too have struggled with their form.
Despite possessing a relatively easier schedule, they squandered an opportunity at a home elimination final, highlighted by a disheartening 50-point concession to the Canberra Raiders, showcasing their current vulnerabilities.