'Time to stand up': Sharks vow to repay loyalty

Sharks players recognize that their upcoming match in Melbourne on Friday night may be about more than just reaching the grand final. They have committed to honoring Craig Fitzgibbon's loyalty by avoiding any roster changes.

Currently, Cronulla is one victory away from clinching a grand final spot for the second consecutive year. However, both players and coaching staff feel a sense of dissatisfaction despite reaching the playoffs in each of Fitzgibbon's four seasons as head coach.

Throughout Fitzgibbon's tenure, the Sharks have maintained one of the most consistent rosters in the NRL, with Cameron McInnes and Nicho Hynes joining the squad in 2022 and Addin Fonua-Blake strengthening their forward pack this season.

Notably, star winger Ronaldo Mulitalo emphasized the importance of the Sharks repaying the faith shown in them by Fitzgibbon and the organization, even after their recent victories against the Bulldogs, Roosters, and Raiders.

Following Saturday night's win in Canberra, Fitzgibbon remarked that the Sharks are prepared to advance but also recognized that there would be scrutiny regarding their performance against the Storm.