Sat Sep 14 09:35:57 UTC 2024: ## Sharks Remain Unfazed Despite Heavy Finals Loss, Eyeing Upset Against Cowboys

Despite a 37-10 thrashing at the hands of the Melbourne Storm in their qualifying final, Cronulla Sharks captain Cam McInnes remains optimistic about their chances of making a deep run in the NRL finals. The Sharks, who have struggled in the playoffs since their 2016 premiership victory, are determined to avoid a straight-sets exit for the second time in three seasons.

“There’s a massive opportunity ahead of us,” McInnes declared, emphasizing the importance of their upcoming clash against North Queensland next week. “Other teams would kill to be here, so there’s no complacency or negative energy.”

The Sharks, who managed to beat Melbourne earlier this season, had a chance to pull off another upset before the Storm exploded in the second half, scoring 23 unanswered points. Coach Craig Fitzgibbon acknowledged the performance would do little to silence critics, but emphasized the importance of earning respect. “Respect’s earned, it’s not a gift. No one gives it to you,” he said. “All we’ve earned was an opportunity to be in the top four. That’s the only respect we’ve earned.”

While the loss was a tough pill to swallow, the Sharks remain determined to prove their worth in the finals. With their backs against the wall, they will look to upset the Cowboys and keep their season alive.

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