NRL round-up: Reynolds provides masterclass while Townsend boot crucial for Sharks

Just two points were the difference in both games combined in the NRL on the weekend.

Chad Townsend kept a cool head to slot a drop-goal with five minutes remaining to seal a 21-20 win for Cronulla Sharks over Penrith Panthers. The Sharks will now play Melbourne Storm for a place in the NRL Grand Final.

Cronulla went into the sheds leading 18-2 thanks to tries from Townsend, Australia ace Valentine Holmes and Luke Lewis. Penrith fought back in the second half though, with tries from Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo and Waqa Blake. Townsend’s one-pointer was the only thing to separate the teams in the end.

Adam Reynolds kicked not one, not two, but three drop-goals to guide South Sydney Rabbitohs to a nail-biting 13-12 win over St George Illawarra Dragons. The Rabbitohs will now face rivals Sydney Roosters for a spot in the Grand Final.

The Dragons were 8-2 ahead at the break after a first half try was scored by Ben Hunt. Reynolds put in a masterclass display though as he kicked three goals from as many attempts as well as scoring a try. England internationals Tom Burgess, George Burgess, Sam Burgess and James Graham all played in the game.

NRL finals week two results:

Cronulla Sharks 21-20 Penrith Panthers (19,211)

South Sydney Rabbitohs 13-12 St George Illawarra Dragons (48,188)