LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Jersey Flegg Sharks and Newtown Jets both faced disappointing defeats in round 13 played at Henson Park.
The ladder-leading Sharks, after taking a 14-12 lead into halftime, were ultimately beaten by the Wests Tigers with a score of 30-18.
This loss resulted in the Sharks dropping from first to fourth on the competition ladder, equating them with the Eels and Raiders, and leaving them one point behind the Melbourne Storm.
The game began positively for the Sharks, who led with three tries in the first 20 minutes, two from winger Pharell Gray, establishing a 14-4 lead.
However, two unconverted tries from the Tigers brought the teams closer at halftime.
The Tigers continued their momentum into the second half, quickly taking the lead with a try in the 41st minute, followed by another, bringing the score to 24-14.
Despite a try from prop Felix Faatili that momentarily reignited the Sharks' hopes with 20 minutes left, the Tigers managed a sixth try soon after, solidifying their 12-point victory.
The Newtown Jets also struggled, falling behind from the outset in their match against the Wests Magpies and failing to recover, losing 32-22.
Overall, it was a tough weekend for both Cronulla teams, with the Sharks facing a critical drop in rankings and the Jets unable to find their footing against formidable opponents.