Story By Mick Rimer (Coach) Photo's by : Steve Montgomery / OurFootyTeam.com

In very trying conditions, the Cronulla Under 15's Development team opened their season with a promising 3 try loss to South West Academy.

For a team that has only had 4 training sessions and used 24 players on the day, the result reflected the limited preparation for the game.

Early in the game, both teams defended stoutly, with big hits the order of the day.

After 30 mins the Junior Sharks hit the lead, 4-0,m thanks to some enterprising play from halfback Ryan Dunlop.

A well balance grubber on the last tackle and a great kick chase, saw Dane Rogers dive on the ball and open the scoring.

Unfortunately, from there on, the bigger and more match fit South West Academy team, began to take the game away from the Junior Sharks.

Despite their best efforts, the Junior Sharks ran out of petrol in the last third, and the South West team capitalised on a number of crucial handling and defensive errors to win comfortably.

Best on the day for the Junior Sharks were James Hasson, Josh Kubinek, Ryan Dunlop and Joel Smith.

With a number of games to go throughout the development season and before selections, the foundation is being set to build a very competitive Harold Mathews team for 2008.