cronullashark
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By Ricky Stuart
April 08, 2007 12:00
Article from:
</IMG>LANCE Thompson still isn't over being sacked by the Dragons almost 18 months ago. You can hardly blame him, after committing more than a decade to the club.
From his demeanour and attitude this week at Sharks training, you could be forgiven for thinking he had arrived from Kogarah just yesterday.
Lance's intent ahead of tomorrow night's clash has given me the greatest insight into the famous Sharks-Dragons local derby, which has been a grudge match running for 40 years.
For so many reasons, there is a certain distaste from both sides of the Cronulla and St George Illawarra borders.
Like with Lance, much of the resentment may eventually subside - but there is always that little bit of bite that will remain forever.
Lance's form since joining the Sharks last year has proved that he has been a major loss for the Dragons. He has shown me that the Sharks-Dragons derby is more than just another match on the NRL calendar.
It's certainly a unique tradition, the derby.
Currently there are only three genuine derbies woven into the NRL fabric.
I experienced it during my time with the Roosters against Souths. And next weekend a new rivalry will be born when the Broncos meet their baby brother, the Titans.
It's with much anticipation that I become part of this great rivalry. For many years I have watched the Sharks-Dragons clashes with intrigue. And now that I'm at the coalface, it's even more appealing.
I've noticed a different vibe in the area, which I'm sure would be the same down the road at Kogarah. This game is about bragging rights, not just for the fans but the players as well.
It's also no coincidence that this week Sharks captain Brett Kimmorley was heavily linked to the Dragons for next season.
It's a situation that I'm comfortable with, because I know I'll be sitting down with Brett in the near future.
But the two clubs dohave a history of poaching and luring players away from their rivals.
Steve Rogers and Jason Stevens are two of the bigger names who have spent some time in both camps.
Current Sharks Ben Ross, Luke Douglas and Lance were all former Dragons; St George Illawarra boast Sam Isemonger, Tony Caine, Luke MacDougall and the injured Beau Scott - all former Cronulla players.
I also know how much this game means to Dragons coach Nathan Brown.
Having been a former neighbour of Nathan's, this is the game we used to chat frequently about over a beer.
My personal experience of this great tradition may be limited, but I know enough to realise Nathan will have his team steeled for the big occasion.
There's also one common denominator between the two clubs ahead of tomorrow night's match, and perhaps the most important one.
It is that both coaches and both teams are under pressure to find their next win.
We both have only one win to our names.
With so much at stake, it's clear that this won't be just another football match.
Source:http://www.news.com.au/sundaytelegraph/story/0,,21519567-5006066,00.html
lets see if he lines up for a goal kick again!!;-)
