The Mole: Las Vegas hangover the least of Cronulla's worries as tough task awaits
It's not the longest first two rounds of travel in league history that worries the Sharks most leading into the weekend.
Instead, it's more the possibility of the bounce-back factor of the Cowboys that players are wary of.
Cronulla have drawn the short straw in the draw, starting off in Las Vegas against the reigning premiers Penrith, before another mammoth journey to Townsville on Saturday.
READ MORE: Joey slams 'really poor' Dolphins as Knights run rampant
READ MORE: 'The worst': Major issue Sharks players faced in Vegas
READ MORE: Roosters coach responds to Manu return rumours
Teig Wilton The Mole Getty
"It's a lot of travelling but I think we have it under control," Sharks forward Teig Wilton told Wide World of Sports.
"Having the weekend off last week helped and our preparation has been different to the past. It was disappointing to lose to Penrith in the USA.
"They are a great team and four-time premiers for a reason. We put up a good showing against them and took plenty of positives out of our performance."
Watch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.
Wilton admits he is concerned at taking on a Cowboys team licking their wounds after a first-up 42-12 thrashing at the hands of Manly.
Cowboys players during their round one loss. Cameron Spencer via Getty Images
"They will be out to prove a point, especially back home for the first time this season," the hard-working back-rower said.
"They are a good team and will be up for it.
"We know we are in for a hard game and need to be at our best."
Todd Payten has already made a big call after the loss, with star Jeremiah Nanai axed and set to play reserve grade this weekend.
