The Cronulla Sharks produced a miracle escape against the Illawarra Cutters at Henson Park on Saturday, with a late try to Kurt Mann leveling the game with seconds remaining.
After defending their line for four consecutive sets of six, the Cutters defence finally cracked when Tim Robinson split the line for the Sharks to open the scoring and lead 6-0.
A penalty to the Cutters finally put them within attacking range and Willie Mataka capitalized on the opportunity by dragging two defenders over the line to level the game.
With windy conditions making it difficult for both teams in attack, a mistake from Illawarra gifted Cronulla possession and the Sharks scored their second try to lead 10-6 at the break.
The Cutters put their best foot forward to begin the second half, with Kose Lelei finishing off some great lead up work by his forwards to level the scores at 10-10 after 55 minutes.
Bronx Goodwin put his side in the lead after the ball traveled through several sets of hands for the Cutters to take the lead, with Seijka’s conversion adding the extras for a 16-10 lead.
The following 20 minutes were torrid with both sides fighting hard to gain the advantage and put themselves within attacking range.
With the clock ticking down and the Cutters looking to secure an unlikely victory, a magical offload allowed Sharks fullback Kurt Mann to race down field and score untouched to level the game for a 16-16 all draw at full-time.
The Cronulla Sharks will take on the Newcastle Knights in Round 20 of the VB NSW Cup in a top-of-the table clash at Cessnock Sports Ground, while the Illawarra Cutters will fight for their season against the Auckland Vulcans at WIN Stadium.
Cronulla Sharks 16 (K Mann, T Robinson, J Rociqa tries; M McGhan 2 goals) drew with Illawarra Cutters 16 (B Goodwin, K Lelei, W Mataka tries; H Siejka 2 goals) at Henson Park.
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Sharks and Cutters Draw at Henson
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