SHELLHARBOUR City has celebrated their return to the Group 7 Rugby League competition by defeating Gerringong 16-14 in Sunday’s Under-18s grand final.
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The Sharks appeared the more dangerous of the two sides throughout the opening half, but sturdy defence kept the lead to 10-0 at half-time at Collegians Sporting Complex.
Lack of discipline cost Gerringong early, as they conceded a penalty on their line and Shellharbour halfback and Man of the Match Jai Field stepped his way over next to the posts.
He converted his own try for 6-0.
After earlier being denied a four-pointer due to a forward pass, sheer weight of possession resulted in skipper Kurt Field extending their advantage.
Gerringong were on board in the 43rd minute through Harry Phillips, but the conversion was waved away.
Lions’ winger Zac Duprez’s soon crossed out wide, but again the four-pointer went unconverted.
Following Gerringong giving away a penalty while in possession, the Sharks swiftly responded thanks to prop Blake Lowrie crashing over from an inside ball.
At 16-8, Shellharbour appeared to have a match-winning lead.
Gerringong refused to concede defeat though, a Rueben Garrick line break being supported by Phillips, who was just able to elude the cover-defence for his second try and 16-14.
The Sharks were able to contain one last Gerringong attacking set to seal the win and the premiership trophy.