Sharks v Cowboys final snapshot

NRL PRELIMINARY FINAL 1

Result: Cronulla 32 defeated North Queensland 20 at Allianz Stadium

Key moment: When Chad Townsend put Luke Lewis over in the 52nd minute for a scoreline of 20-6, any thoughts of a Cowboys fightback were dashed.

Key quote: "It has taken 15 years for me to finally get to a grand final." - Sharks skipper Paul Gallen.

Judiciary: None

Injuries: None

What's next: The Sharks move onto their first grand final in a united competition since 1978 and premiers North Queensland bow out of the title race.