A first-half double to Cassie Staples has powered the Sharks to a thumping 14-0 win over the Cowboys who could be in for another tough season after they failed to fire in attack despite dominating possession and territory.
The Sharks were tipped in the pre-season to be the big improvers after they missed the finals in their first year, and they showed they will be a force in 2024 with their left edge causing all sorts of problems for the Cowboys defence.
Emma Tonegato set up Tiana Penitani for the opener before the skipper turned provider for Staples who scored two tries in three minutes from simple scrum plays close to the line.
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The Sharks have strike all over the park, make easy metres through Ellie Johnston and they also have a weapon in defence with Brooke Anderson cutting the Cowboys in half and forcing an error which led to Staples’ try.
They also know how to celebrate with Penitani resuscitating Staples after her first try to put another $5000 in the Try July kitty.
The Cowboys won just two games in their inaugural season and the early signs suggest they could be in for another long year after they failed to capitalise on a stack of first-half territory when they were camped on Cronulla’s line.
North Queensland rarely threatened, with key signing Jakiya Whitfeld having to wait 22 minutes for her first carry after she was one of the league’s best metre eaters at the Tigers last year.
Things won’t get easier next week with Queensland rookie Makenzie Weale set to enter concussion protocols after her head slammed into the turf inside the opening five minutes.
Source Agencies
