Cronulla Sharks survive being reduced to 11 men to win by 19 points

Cronulla Sharks have been one of the standout sides of the NRL so far this season but did it tough today against the New Zealand Warriors.

After taking the lead early with a superb try, the Sharks found themselves a man down when Will Kennedy was sent off for a dangerous high tackle inside the opening quarter.

In his immediate absence, the Sharks fell behind to two quick tries but squeezed in front before the break with a try of their own making it 12-10 at the interval.

The Sharks then conjured up the start they needed to the second half with another try to make it 16-10 but then came a moment they absolutely didn’t need: a yellow card.

Jesse Ramien was sin binned for dangerous contact leaving the sharks down to 11 men. Despite having two less players on the field, by the time Ramien returned the score was still 16-10 as the Sharks held on in what was a turning point in the contest.

His return to the contest coincided with two tries either side of a smart field goal which added up together to give the Sharks a 29-10 win over the Warriors.

A remarkable effort from a side who look like they can trouble the Premiership favourites in 2022 based on their early form and today’s win will only give them more momentum.