NRL Round 3 Preview and Prediction - Cronulla Sharks v St George Illawarra Dragons @ Shark Park

Cronulla Sharks (1-1) V St George Illawarra Dragons (1-1) @ Shark Park

Preview - It’s the Southern Sydney Derby here as the Dragons visit the Sharks with both sides looking to achieve their second win of the season. The Sharks showed everyone that they mean business in 2017 with a fantastic 42-16 victory in Canberra. The best quality of the Sharks' play was their slick attack and power game on the edges, with this side containing a number of really skillful players. The Dragons crashed back to earth with a thud after their huge win over the Panthers as they were beaten comprehensively 34-16 by the Eels at WIN Stadium. 

History - Whilst the Dragons have won 4 from the last 6 clashes between the two teams, they have been beaten comprehensively at Shark Park on their last two visits there. Last season in Round 2 they were belted 30-2, before hitting back with a 32-18 victory at Kogarah. 

Cronulla Sharks Scouting Report - The Sharks have named the same 17 that put together the complete performance against the Raiders, however both Gerard Beale and Valentine Holmes have been named on an extended bench, so it will be interesting to see whether Shane Flanagan decided to make one or both late inclusions. If it were my call, I would be sticking with Jack Bird at fullback based on his outstanding performance there last week. Wade Graham also looks certain to reclaim his Origin jersey this year. I think he is taking his game to the next level after a brilliant 3-try performance against the Raiders. 

St George Illawarra Dragons Scouting Report - Paul McGregor has remained loyal to the 17 players that lost convincingly to the Eels last week. However, exciting young five eight Jai Field has been named on an extended bench. I thought there was plenty of effort in the Dragons' performance last week, however they just made too many simple errors early in the tackle count down their end. Both Russell Packer and Josh Dugan will be looking to bounce back after having days to forget with their hands. 

Verdict - Sharks by 1-10 in a physical encounter

I can see there being plenty of fire and brimstone in this local derby. The Dragons' forwards have played with a bit of attitude this year and I think this rivalry might see a really physical encounter with plenty of niggle and spite. Whilst I favour Cronulla  because i think they have more option in attack, if the Dragons can drag them into a grinding sort of wrestling game, they give themselves a chance. With the rain sticking around in Sydney, it might not be easy for the Sharks to move the football around as they did last week. I reckon Jack Bird might take his asking price up even further here with another great display as the Sharks win by a try or two.