NRL: Sharks looking up at top two

Cronulla Sharks are pushing for a place in the top two and a win over the New Zealand Warriors on Saturday night is a must.

The Sharks sit third on the ladder, and although a place in the top four is not yet guaranteed, they are looking up not down.

Second spot will mean a home final and will boost their chances of going all the way and winning the grand final.

They can be backed at 13.00 to do just that.

The Warriors are nowhere near finals following a disappointing campaign but they still have a lot to play for on Saturday night.

Club legend Shaun Johnson will play his last game before retiring and the Warriors will be desperate to give him the perfect send off.

It means they will be going all out to cause an upset in front of what will be a packed out Shark Park.

. What: Cronulla Sharks v New Zealand Warriors
. Where: Shark Park, Sydney
. When: 19:35 (AEST), Saturday 31st August
. How to watch: Kayo, Foxtel, Channel 9
. Odds: Cronulla Sharks 1.18, New Zealand Warriors 5.00

Cronulla target strong finish

Cronulla look locked in for the top four but they are setting their sights higher, with a place in the top two still up for grabs.

The Sharks along with the Panthers and Roosters are locked on 36 points and there is all to play for in the remaining two games of the regular season.

Craig Fitzgibbon’s men have won the last four games on the bounce and appear to be hitting top form again at just the right time.

They will be keen to keep the momentum going heading into finals, so a win over the Warriors is a must.

Their form at home has been great in 2024 with seven wins from nine games and they can be backed at 1.70 to win by 13+ points.

The return of Nicho Hynes from an ankle injury will give the Sharks a boost, as will Sione Katoa returning from a concussion.

Katoa can be backed at 6.50 to score the first try of the game or 1.62 to score at anytime.

There is still no Ronaldo Mulitalo but the Sharks will hope to have him back for finals.

Johnson bids farewell

It will be an emotional night for the Warriors as legendary playmaker Shaun Johnson plays his final game before hanging up his boots.

The Warriors will be desperate to get the win for him and are priced at 6.50 to do it by 1-12 points.

It would be fitting if Johnson could get himself a try on the night and he can be backed at 6.50 to score at anytime.

Johnson also spent three seasons with the Sharks in between his two spells with the Warriors, which makes the night extra special.