Brad Dietz puts the Sharks in attack (Photo : steve montgomery / OurFootyTeam.com)

(Photo : steve montgomery / OurFootyTeam.com)

HOLDEN CUP MATCH REPORT – ROUND 18
The NYC Sharks have played out a 22-all draw with the competition leading Newcastle Knights in their round 18 match at Remondis Stadium.

With a strong southerly behind them the Sharks jumped out to a 22-0 half time lead, however the Knights fought back to level the score, with the two teams having to settle for the one point.

The Sharks began the match with plenty of energy however it took 20 minutes for them to post first points, halfback Alex Zarounas slicing through to score wide out.

They were over again shortly after and again Zarounas featured in the play, a clever inside pass putting Valentine Holmes into space with the fullback dashing 15 metres to touch down.

Holmes converted his own try and the Sharks led 10-0.

Now with the momentum the Sharks were over again, this time it was Jaden Clark showing great strength to crash over adjacent to the uprights.

Holmes was again on target with his kick at goal and the Sharks tails were up at 16-0.

It looked as though that would be the score at the break but on the stroke of half time the Sharks would add to their advantage, Sage Wilder crossing after some good lead up play from centre Paul Simona.

But as was always likely against a quality opposition the Knights responded but despite two quick tries which made the score 22-10 they seemed to still have the game under control.

To the frustration of coach Dave Howlett that wouldn’t be the case, Newcastle leveling the score with more than 10 minutes of the match remaining.

Both sides had their chance to win the game in a frantic final few minutes however neither team was able to break the deadlock with the honours shared.

The draw was the second of the season for the NYC Sharks but coming against one of the fancied teams in the under 20’s competition should gain some confidence from their performance.

NYC SHARKS 22
Alex Zarounas, Jaden Clarke, Valentine Holmes, Sage Wilder tries, Holmes 3 goals
Drew with
NEWCASTLE 2