Shire derby produces a thrilling finish with a game-winning try as time expired.
Andrew Fifita continued his stellar year for the Cronulla Sharks in scoring the winning try to help his team to a stunning 22-18 win over the St George Illawarra Dragons.
Showing his pace that has set him apart from other props in the NRL this season, Fifita just beat Dragons fullback Jason Nightingale to a loose ball to give his side the important two competition points.
The Dragons jumped out to a handy 12-point lead early, thanks to two pieces of individual brilliance from Nightingale.
After Cronulla’s Sam Tagataese knocked on, the stand-in fullback scooped up the ball and ran 80 metres to open the scoring for the game and his side.
He then turned into facilitator when a silky pass found Brett Morris, who glided across the try-line untouched.
Todd Carney gave Cronulla some hope soon later after he put on a play to set up Ben Pomeroy to cross in the 15th minute.
However, due to a shocking completion rate of just 50 per cent, they trailed 18-6 at half-time.
Cronulla then got back into the game as they managed to hang onto the ball more, and when Jeff Robson combined with Issac De Gois, they brought the margin back to just six, setting up the chance for Fifita to become the hero for his side.
Cronulla will clash with the Sydney Roosters in round 24 of the season while the Dragons will continue to seek some late season pride, when the take on Wests Tigers at the SCG.
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