Sharks register respectable loss

The Arorangi Bears, Tupapa Panthers and Avatiu Eels wrapped up the first round of the league season with convincing wins at the weekend.

At “The Swamp” on Saturday the Eels racked up the points early against their Aitutaki cousins.

With a big lead at the first half – one Aitutaki supporter predicted a big come back and win for the Sharks.

While the Sharks didn’t win – they put on a great second half display to register a respectable loss as it was always going to be a tough match against the competition leaders on their home ground.

It was a relatively clinical approach by the Eels as they sharpened up their combinations while the Sharks were thrilled to dot down against the leading club.

Meanwhile, out at Raemaru Park, the Bears roared to life with a 54-12 thrashing against the Warriors, signalling they are finally ready to make waves in the season.

At Victoria Park the Panthers gave their supporters plenty to cheer about as they ran rings around the Sea Eagles to begin the long march back to the top four while the Sea Eagles will be ruing missing opportunities.

The Panthers will look to continue to sharpen their claws and will be eyeing up a victory against the Avatiu Eels in their first game of round two this coming weekend.

The Bears will want to continue their winning ways against the Sea Eagles this weekend and will be desperate to get their train back on track.

Meanwhile, the Bulldogs will face the Warriors in the first round – the Warriors let the Bulldogs slip through but after a winless first round – it could be the “nothing to lose” attitude that might get them across the line.

The Sharks will take a break this week and take time to think about their plan of attack for round two.