Cronulla 18-10 Penrith
Cronulla started with a useful 18-10 win over Penrith although their win was marred by a serious back injury to front-rower Ben Ross.
New signings Trent Barrett and Anthony Tupou shined for the hosts, scoring a try apiece but the Panthers’ poor halfback combination did little to spark them in attack.
The future of coach Matt Elliott is the subject of much speculation as the Western Sydney club look to improve on last season’s dissapointing campaign.
Sharks
Tries: Trent Barrett, Anthony Tupou
Goals: Luke Covell 5
Panthers
Tries: Michael Jennings
Goals: Michael Gordon 3