Wests Tigers have been unsuccessful in their search for the club’s first win of 2022, falling 30-4 against the Cronulla Sharks at PointsBet Stadium.
The joint-venture matched the home side’s intensity for large portions of the match, but defensive lapses proved fatal against a potent Cronulla outfit.
After testing positive to COVID-19 on his way to the stadium, Fullback Daine Laurie was ruled out and replaced at the back by new recruit Stafford To’a.
It was an unhappy start to the game for To’a as an unfortunate error provided Briton Nikora with the chance to open the scoring.
Cronulla looked to have furthered their advantage minutes later, but a desperate defensive effort from To’a forced Ronaldo Mulitalo over the touch line.
The home side wouldn’t be denied however, as Sione Katoa crossed for a double to give the Sharks a fourteen point halftime lead.
After the break, tries to Ronaldo Mulitalo, Jesse Ramien and Will Kennedy put the result beyond reach as the Cronulla attack flexed its muscle.
An intercept from Ken Maumalo broke the attacking drought, with the winger racing away to score a consolation try in the 80th minute.
Despite the loss, Luciano Leilua and Joe Ofahengaue both impressed with strong performances, each running for over 130 metres.
The club’s next chance to earn its elusive first victory will come against Parramatta in the traditional Easter Monday blockbuster.
