The Mole: Cronulla Sharks Downplay ‘Revenge’ as They Reflect on ‘Difficult’ Loss to Panthers

Cronulla Sharks captain Cam McInnes is confident that the hours spent analysing last year’s preliminary final defeat to the Panthers will help his team secure victory over the reigning champions on Sunday afternoon (AEDT) in Las Vegas.

The Sharks were eliminated just a game shy of the grand final, suffering a 26-6 defeat that concluded their 2024 season. However, McInnes maintains that this match isn’t driven by the desire for revenge.

“It would be fantastic to get one back after coming so close last year, but revenge is not our driving force,” McInnes shared with Wide World of Sports. “This is more about facing the benchmark team and gauging our level as we kick off the season. We’ve closely examined our past game through video review, which wasn’t easy to watch, but we gleaned valuable lessons and understand what we need to do.

“We understand the strategy – I don’t want to reveal too much, but maintaining field position is crucial to overcoming them. They are an exceptional side that systematically advances down the field and capitalises on scoring opportunities. If we can hold our ground in that regard, we’ll be making progress.

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“However, they are also exceptionally proficient at defending their try line… that’s why they are regarded as the greatest team of the modern era.

“The atmosphere leading up to both games is actually quite similar – both are significant matches with immense stakes. It’s been a long off-season, and the players are eager to hit the field.”

The defending champions will be missing their star winger Brian To’o for the encounter in Sin City, while the Sharks will also be without winger Sione Katoa for an extended period.