Sharks boost hopes of survival with Lions victory

Shaw Cross Sharks produced one of their best performances of the season to come from behind and defeat third placed Featherstone Lions 22-18 in National Conference Division One last Saturday.
Sharks Cross Sharks earned a crucial win.Sharks Cross Sharks earned a crucial win.
Sharks Cross Sharks earned a crucial win.

Sharks overturned a 10 point deficit and, despite missing four out of their five kicks, edged ahead with 10 minutes to go.

It was a fierce encounter as he referee sent two players from each side to the sin-bin.

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The Sharks started at a frantic pace mounting pressure on the Lions line but the visitors weathered the early storm before taking the lead.

A Featherstone forward delivered a brilliant offload to set up the try.

Brandan French was shown a yellow card for dissent but the Lions were unable to capitalise on the extra man.

Minutes later, a brawl broke out and when order was restored Sharks Jack Gledhill and a Featherstone winger were sent to the bin.

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Shaw Cross hit back before the break as Will Gledhill blitzed through the defence to beat four players and score.

A Gledhill run early in the second half resulted in him being caught by a high tackle which resulted in the Lions number 18 being sin-binned.

Moments later, an excellent pass from Ryan Chalkley put Jack Gledhill over for a try as the Sharks edged ahead.

But two quick fire tries from the Lions second rower gave them a 10-point advantage after 55 minutes.

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Shaw Cross refused to give in and soon had their reward. A great break from captain John Rourke moved Sharks well up field.

Sharp passing towards the right wing saw centre French get over the line for the try.

French was involved once again as he produced a magnificent offload to put Jake Dooner over for the equalising try.

With the sides level, Featherstone attempted a drop goal that went inches wide.

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Featherstone looked to have snatched another try as Jack Gledhill collected a kick but lost the ball in the tackle.

The opposition winger picked up the loose ball and crossed but his celebration was cut short as it was ruled out for offside.

Two minutes later, Cross grabbed the winning try as Will Gledhill darted over from acting half-back.

Robbie Byatt produced a try saving tackle late on as the Sharks held on for the two points and victory at East Leeds on Saturday could see their survival confirmed.