Round 5: NYC Match Report
Ralph Tucker
Saturday 6 April 2013 5:30 PM
The Pirtek Parramatta Eels have produced a spirited last ditch effort to snatch a 30-all draw against the Cronulla Sharks in an action packed Holden Cup encounter at Parramatta Stadium.
Parramatta five-eighth Mitchell Brasington showed nerves of steal to land a sidleline conversion after the siren to ensure the Eels shared the points with the Sharks in a see-sawing NYC contest.
The young Eels started in cracking style when FJ Maulala managed to find his way across the try-line from a well crafted kick. Brasington added the extras for a 6-nil lead.
It didn't take long for the Sharks to bounce back and looked in control following a couple of converted tries to talented youngsters Michael Lichaa and Crete Waaka.
Parramatta five-eighth Sam Gorman produced a superb individual try just moments later to get the Eels back level, until the Cronulla side crossed late in the half to lead 18-12 at the break.
Another smart individual kick-chase try from Gorman again saw the scores level at 18 apiece. Eels lock Joesph Ualesi then crashed over the line to give Parramatta the lead for the first time since the early minutes of the match.
It was short lived as the Cronulla side regained the ascendency 30-24 with two tries to power forwards, Tokerau Raru and Sione Masima, which was thanks in the main to some poor ball control by the Eels.
Just when all seemed lost, and with the clock ticking down, Takai Moeakiola finished off a superb backline movement in the corner, to set up the stage for Brasington's sensational conversion.
The result is sure to give Andrew Webster's team plenty of confidence heading into next Sunday's clash against the Titans on the Gold Coast.
Parramatta Eels 30 (Sam Gorman 2, FJ Mauala, Joesph Ualesi, Takai Moeakiola tries; Mitchell Brasington 5 goals)
Cronulla Sharks 30 (Michael Lichaa, Crete Waaka, Taylar Garrett, Tokerau Raru, Sione Massima tries; Taylar Garrett 5 goals)
