'Something missing': Cronulla called out over 'aggression' issues as premiership hopes fade
Brad Fittler has questioned the lack of "aggression" shown by Cronulla this season in the wake of their surprise loss against the Dragons.
After winning 10 games in a row against their local rivals, the Sharks were out-enthused on Saturday afternoon in rainy conditions at Kogarah Oval.
The hosts showed far more energy and determination, led by fullback and captain Clint Gutherson, to keep their extremely faint finals hopes alive with a 22-14 win.
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But for the Sharks, the disappointing performance should be setting off alarm bells for coach Craig Fitzgibbon heading towards the business-end of the season.
Craig Fitzgibbon Getty
Cronulla made 15 errors in the defeat and conceded eight penalties, before struggling in good-ball attack and failing to mount a comeback despite ample opportunities.
Speaking on the Nine broadcast following the game, Fittler pointed out the key issue that is plaguing the inconsistent Sharks this year.
"I haven't seen them really aggressive," the former NSW Blues coach said.
"I used to see them as really aggressive, especially with the forward pack. They didn't start that game aggressive and then when they tried to, it wasn't there.
"When they needed the try, it wasn't there - they couldn't find the extra gear.
"I don't feel like they explode out of the gates, they sort of lumber out of the gates."
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It's a worrying assessment from one of the game's all-time greats and as Fittler mentioned, there is no shortage of aggressive players in the Sharks team.
Addin Fonua-Blake and Briton Nikora are two of the best players in the competition in their respective positions, while the likes of Jesse Ramien and Ronaldo Mulitalo have made a name for themselves for taking the contest to their rivals.
The spine - with the exception of Blayke Brailey perhaps - have also failed to fire for large portions of the season, leading to more criticism of halfback Nicho Hynes.
Nicho Hynes of the Sharks is tackled during the round 23 NRL match between St George Illawarra Dragons and Cronulla Sharks at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, on August 09, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images) Getty
"I don't know what it is, but there's something missing with them," Broncos legend Darren Lockyer added.
Cronulla are still likely to make the finals with games against the Titans and Knights, as well as a round 25 bye, making up the majority of their run home.
But if things don't turn around soon, the Sharks will simply be making up the numbers.
"It's hard to get a gauge on the Sharks," Billy Slater said.
"They were beaten by the Dragons, who are outside the eight.
"Last week, the Cowboys were awful and they put in a good performance. The week before, they only just fell over the line against the Rabbitohs, who are really struggling.
"If I was Craig Fitzgibbon, I wouldn't be really happy with where they're at."
Cronulla sit in seventh spot on the ladder with 28 points, one win clear of the Roosters and Dolphins, but still have a guaranteed two points up their sleeve.
