LIVE NRL: Dearden’s long-range stunner as Cowboys drawl level in frantic Sharks clash

LIVE NRL: Dearden’s long-range stunner as Cowboys drawl level in frantic Sharks clash

The Cronulla Sharks lead the North Queensland Cowboys 12-6 in their clash for a preliminary final berth at PointsBet Stadium.

Tom Gilbert barged over from close range to give the Cowboys an early lead, before Toby Rudolf and Siosifa talakai scored to give the Sharks the lead.

MATCH CENTRE: Sharks vs Cowboys teams, SuperCoach scores, videos, updates

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Finals Week 1

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25TH MINUTE

Nicho Hynes produced a superbly timed pass to put Siosifa talakai over untouched to see the Sharks take the lead.

11TH MINUTE

Toby Rudolf produced a brilliant power run to the line to get the Sharks back in the contest.

“That is an incredible run from Rudolf,” Greg Alexander said.

“That was shades of Fifita in the 2016 Grand Final,” James Hooper said.

8TH MINUTE

Tom Gilbert used all his strength to carry multiple defenders over to score the first try of the night.

MATCH PREVIEW

The Cronulla Sharks host the North Queensland Cowboys for a shot at the preliminary final at PointsBet Stadium.

The Sharks are set to be boosted by the availability of centre Siosifa Talakai, who has made a remarkable recovery from an ankle injury suffered last week.

Dale Finucane (ribs), Toby Rudolf (knee), Will Kennedy (ankle) and Connor Tracey (concussion) all return to bolster the Sharks.

The Cowboys welcome back Coen Hess from suspension on the bench, with Jamayne Taunoa-Brown dropping out.

Tom Dearden will wear a protective box after making a successful return from a ruptured testicle last week.

Tom Gilbert starts for the Cowboys with Luciano Leilua switching to the bench.

The winner will join the Panthers in having a week off and sit 80 minutes from a grand final, while the loser faces a do or die semi-final next week, so there is everything to play for.

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