Match Preview:
Dragons v Sharks preview
Andrew Jackson (@PenrithPanther45) | August 10 2016 8:34PM
The Sharks look to get their push for the Minor Premiership back on track while the Dragons ponder on the thought of now only being a mathematical possibility in the finals.
The Dragons have showed little in 2016. With the second worst attack in the NRL and eighth best defence (albeit only five points separates them from placing eleventh in that category), the Dragons are now forced to lament another failed season, with their season over, boasting the second worst for and against in the league of -165. The Dragons do receive some good news, however, with Josh Dugan, Joel Thompson and Tyson Frizell all returning for the Southern derby. Dugan will need to stand up if the Dragons are any hope of causing a boil over with the Dragons inept attack denying them any chance of claiming a victory as of late. Having lost five straight his involvement could be telling. Equally important will be Frizell, who provides energy up front for the home side. Having managed an average 98 running metres a game in an average of 67 minutes, the Dragons will be relying on Frizell and his fellow forwards to dominate the middle of the field and thus allow Benji Marshall and Gareth Widdop further chances to improve their faltering attack.
The Sharks were due for a loss, but the magnitude of the loss that they suffered at the hands of the Raiders is a slight concern. However, hooker Michael Ennis returns for their vital clash with the Dragons as they attempt to keep in touch with the Storm atop of the ladder. Luckily for the Sharks, they face what seems a relatively simple opportunity to regain form and focus on reclaiming top spot. Possessing the second best attack in the league and third best defence, this week's usually close derby appears a mismatch. What is key, however, to Cronulla's success is their ability to refocus and not linger on last week's disappointment.
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http://leagueunlimited.com/news/28963-dragons-v-sharks-preview/
