NRL Round 14 Preview - Sharks v Tigers @ Shark Park

Cronulla Sharks v Wests Tigers @ Shark Park
 
Preview - The Sharks will be looking to bounce back from their first loss in 6 weeks when they take on the Tigers at Southern Cross Group Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The Sharks were outenthused from the get go against an understrength Rabbitohs last week, going down 22-14 in a game in which they scored two late tries and which flattered the scoreline somewhat. The Tigers blew a golden opportunity to beat the Roosters for a second time this season, producing a sloppy display in losing 16-14 at Allianz Stadium, despite a furious fightback in the final 20 minutes.
 
Cronulla Sharks’ Scouting Report - Cronulla have named Val Holmes to back up from Origin at fullback, pushing Edrick Lee to wing and Sosaia Feki to the Reserves. Sione Katoa holds on to a wing spot after a strong performance last week.
 
Wests Tigers’ Scouting Report - Malakai Watene-Zelezniak replaces David Nofoaluma on the wing. Matt Eisenhuth starts at lock for Tim Grant (bench). Josh Reynolds was impressive last week at hooker, having a hand in both tries the Tigers scored, as he lifted them noticeably in the second half. 
 
Verdict - Sharks by 12-22

Put simply, the Sharks’ best is better than the Tigers’ best, and I expect them to come out firing after a poor performance last week away from home. For all their effort in defence this year, the Tigers’ attack has been really poor this season, and I just don’t think they have enough points in them to worry the quality teams. Expect the Tigers to compete, but the Sharks have a better roster and at close to full strength should win by a couple of tries in front of their home fans.