Monday Buzz: Inside Cronulla Sharks’ sheds after sealing spot in NRL grand final

AFTER the devastation of last year’s finals exit, it was a different scene inside the Sharks’ dressings sheds at the weekend, writes PHIL ROTHFIELD.

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TWELVE months is a long time in rugby league.

Your columnist was inside the Sharks’ dressing room in Townsville last September after the 39-0 defeat to the Cowboys.

Heads bowed, complete silence.

You’ve never seen heartbreak quite like it.

Shane Flanagan wandering around trying to think of what to say. After several minutes Paul Gallen finally breaks the silence.

“It’s important we learn from what’s happened,” he says in a voice so soft it’s barely audible.

Sharks skipper Paul Gallen and his Cronulla teammates sing the team inside the dressing sheds. Picture. Brett Costello

“When you get opportunities like tonight you’ve got to put your best foot forward and we didn’t. Losses like this are never easy to take. Just learn from it.”

And learn they did.

Fast forward to Friday night at Allianz Stadium. Your columnist was again inside the Sharks’ sheds after the win over Johnathan Thurston’s Cowboys.

The contrast from devastation to euphoria is ­unbelievable.

Flanagan is hugging and high-fiving all his players, his coaching staff, board members, sponsors.

He knows there is one game to go but it’s a history-making win and one they deserve to enjoy. He begins to address the team.

“That first 40 minutes you blokes were just ruthless,” he says.

Paul Gallen and Andrew Fifita are all smiles after their win over the Cowboys.

“It was everything we practised.

“They got that soft try just after half-time but you regrouped and showed them what this club is all about. Obviously it was hard when we got so far ahead and you start thinking about what’s next.

“You’re in a grand final and you should be very proud. This is just the fourth one in the club’s history.

“You deserve to be there because your effort all year has been outstanding.”

Back at the leagues club after midnight, Flanagan walks in with his coaching staff. The chant blasts through the club: “Flanno, Flanno, Flanno.”

What a difference 12 months makes.

Originally published as Monday Buzz: Inside Cronulla Sharks’ sheds after sealing spot in NRL grand final