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Cronulla Sharks are the real deal in 2012

The Sharks looking dejected during the round 25 NRL match between the North Queensland Cowboys and the Cronulla Sharks. AAP Image/Action Photographics, Colin Whelan
Roar Pro
31st May, 2012
24
1376 Reads

The super coach Jack Gibson was once quoted as saying: “Waiting for Cronulla to win the premiership is like leaving the porch light on for Harold Holt.”

I am a Sharks fan and I have heard them all.

At least when the ‘mighty’ Bears were running around, the Sharkies were able to slip under the radar somewhat with the long suffering North Sydney fans, bearing the majority of “show us your (lack of) premiership jibes”.

And here we are now, in the midst of a looming Sharkies dynasty, with all the Johnny Cumlately’s jumping aboard. The former naysayers are now declaring their allegiance to the black, white and blue.

Those who previously called for the club to be relocated or altogether axed have suddenly converted themselves into a Shire institution, more so than Miranda Fair on a Thursday night.

Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the Sharks are perched high on the table and are a genuine threat for the trophy. Proving they are more than a one man show, the Sharks recently defeated premiership front-runners Melbourne with a display of power, enthusiasm and commitment that had long been missing from Shark Park.

In 2012 the Sharks are the real deal. They are playing a dynamic brand of simple footy, torrid defence and importantly have a real belief in themselves.

The new buys have been fantastic this year. Gibbs, Fifita, Jeff Robson and co have taken their games to a new level. Notwithstanding the influence and spark Carney has brought to the table.

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The prodigious Ben Ross has turned back the clock and the years of being known for being overpaid are a distant memory. His efforts this year have been inspirational.

Bukuya has been a revelation this year and throw in Wade Graham alongside in the backrow and the forwards are looking dangerous and creative. The mainstays of Gallen and Smith are reaping the rewards of having a capable and reliable pack.

Simply, I could wax lyrical about the likes of De Gois, Williams, Best, Pomeroy and co all day because I rate the Sharkies. Always have and always will.

That being the case, there will always be the doomsayers out there who have a vendetta against the Sharks and are quick to write them off.

This is presumably because they live in third world like conditions west of Tom Ugly’s bridge. I would be envious too if my neighbours were toothless rednecks who spend their evenings on the porch shooting possums and/or each other.

To the doomsdayers in the south whose idea of fun is having your footy team hijacked by St George and or staring at the flame emanating from the Steelworks on a Saturday night, stop being bitter.

Those in the north, stick to rugby union and pretending to be important. We don’t care for you.

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The Sharks have overcome many obstacles so far this year and are genuine threats, like it or lump it. Look at who the Sharks have beaten and the manner in doing so. Results speak for themselves.

It’s too late to jump on this bandwagon. You had your chance.

The best thing of all, even if we don’t win the comp, we still have the best looking cheerleaders, the best beaches, the best coffee and the best vibe.

Suffer in your jocks, up the Sharks!

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