LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a tightly contested match, the NZ Warriors fell short against the Cronulla Sharks, losing 28-38 in the round 14 Jersey Flegg Cup at Sharks Stadium.
The Warriors had recently climbed into the top eight with victories over the Bulldogs and Rabbitohs, boosting their confidence as they faced the higher-ranked Sharks.
However, the start of the game was rocky; the Warriors conceded two early tries, falling behind 0-12.
A turning point came in the 12th minute when hooker Jeriko Filipi-Talisau scored a try, igniting the Warriors' hopes.
Although the Sharks extended their lead to 14-6 through a penalty, the match shifted dramatically after Warriors halfback Jett Cleary was sin-binned for a professional foul just before halftime.
The Sharks attempted to score from the penalty, but the Warriors' solid goal-line defense forced an in-goal error, allowing them a seven-tackle set.
Despite falling behind 32-22 due to a double strike from Cronulla, the Warriors fought back.
Second rower Alvin Chong Nee delivered a significant blow, dislodging the ball and regathering it to score their fifth try with just 10 minutes remaining, narrowing the gap to four points.
Despite their efforts, the Warriors couldn't close the distance before the final whistle.