Raider Marc Herbert may play against Cronulla
By Dean Ritchie
CRONULLA believe injured Canberra halfback Marc Herbert will make a shock appearance in tomorrow night's semi-final at Toyota Stadium.
Herbert was originally ruled out for the season after damaging his knee but the injury has mended remarkably quickly.
Raiders coach Neil Henry has named hooker Glen Buttriss at No. 7 but Sharks officials reckon Herbert will make a sneaky return.
Raiders chief executive Don Furner, however, is adamant Herbert will remain on the sidelines.
"They are out there right now training as I talk to you and Marc's not there," Furner said.
"We might be looking at him next week if we happen to get through week one of the finals."
There will be increasing pressure on in-form Canberra five-eighth Terry Campese should Buttriss, in fact, play at No. 7.
Canberra and the Sharks will present contrasting styles tomorrow evening.
Cronulla will grind away while the Raiders enjoy their open, flashy style of football.
The Sharks have experienced a brilliant year, finishing equal first on 38 competition points alongside glamour clubs Manly and Melbourne.
Cronulla look controlled, composed and have a coach in Ricky Stuart who has played and coached in grand finals.
Canberra were tipped to claim the wooden spoon but managed to not only reach the finals but finish in sixth position.
Furner said he was hoping tomorrow night's match would be played at an up-tempo pace.
"They are a very defensive and spoiling side," he said. "We hope to have the chance to play some open football. We try to play the game quickly and make it a good spectacle.
"Everyone is feeling really good - it will be a big challenge going to Cronulla and playing in front of their fans."
CANBERRA will today name a sponsor for the 2009 season.
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