LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In the annals of Rugby League history, there are some rivalries that transcend the game itself.
For Cronulla Sharks fans, the burning animosity towards the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles is as ingrained in their DNA as the black, white and blue colors they proudly wear.
The bitter rivalry between these two teams has been simmering for decades, fueled by heart-wrenching losses in grand finals and crucial matches.
From the gut-wrenching defeats in the 70s to the heartbreaking loss in 2015 that dashed their finals hopes, every Sharks fan knows the pain of facing off against their maroon and white foes.
But on a fateful day in 2005, the Sharks finally had their moment of sweet revenge.
In front of a raucous crowd at Toyota Park, they unleashed a ruthless onslaught on their arch-rivals, inflicting a record-breaking 68-6 defeat on the Sea Eagles.
Despite a rollercoaster season that saw the Sharks veer from highs to lows, the team came together when it mattered most.
Led by their fearless captain Brett Kimmorley, playing in his 200th first-grade game, the Sharks put on a masterclass performance that will forever be etched in Rugby League folklore.
As the Sharks faithful basked in the glory of their historic victory, they knew that this was more than just a game.
It was a statement, a declaration of their unwavering resolve and undying passion for their team.
And for the Sea Eagles, it was a harsh reminder of the pain and suffering that comes with being the enemy of the Sharkies.