‘Destiny in our hands’: Flanagan

Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan has urged his team to take their opportunities if they are to make the NRL finals.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s vital match with the New Zealand Warriors in Auckland, Flanagan said the Sharks must show plenty of confidence in themselves.

“We are in a position now where we’ve got to win games on the way home,” Flanagan told the club’s official website.

“At least our destiny is our own hands, we don’t have to rely on other results. If we win footy games we will be there.

“Of course I’d rather be in the position that if you drop a game or two here or there, it’s not going to affect you too much.

“But either way, you cant cruise into the semi finals.”

Flanagan noted that the Warriors started well against both Newcastle and Manly but could not hold the lead in either match.

“They’ll be disappointed and at home they are certainly a different team,” added Flanagan.

“We’re looking forward to the challenge and if we are serious about our season, we need a big scalp.

“It has been a pretty good season to date, but we really need to take a stand and step up.

“I think our boys are smart enough to be aware how crucial this game in regards to making the finals.

“We don’t want it to slip… I’m really disappointed with what’s happened over the last few weeks but we can dig ourselves out of it and finish well.”