Real Glory, Glory for South Sydney
Souths 26 - Sharks 16
South Sydney remain undefeated so far this season after accounting for the Sharks 26-16 in their round three NRL match-up in Cronulla on Saturday night.
After shooting out of the blocks early to lead 20-4 at half-time, the rejuvenated Rabbitohs ensured their third win in as many starts this season with a controlled performance sure to please coach Jason Taylor.
The Rabbitohs scored four tries to one in the opening stanza, including a double to livewire winger Nathan Merritt, and held a 16-0 lead after just 20 minutes.
Full-back David Peachey opened the scoring after just seven minutes with a try in the right-hand corner from a backline move, and Merrit followed up with his first of the match 10 minutes later.
Hooker Daniel Irvine made it 16-0 when he finished off a terrific team try and the Sharks were visibly shaken by the Rabbitohs' flying start.
Cronulla struck back when Luke Covell grabbed a high ball and touched down in the 33rd minute but Merritt's second, a brilliant solo effort from beyond halfway, ensured a comfortable lead at the break for the visitors.
The home side closed the gap to 10 points with a try to Isaac De Gois 14 minutes into the second stanza, but a four-pointer to David Kidwell and subsequent conversion from Joe Williams restored the lead for South Sydney.
Fraser Anderson scored a consolation try two minutes from time but it was too little, too late for the Sharks, who have lost their last two matches after posting an opening round win over the Panthers.
