The NT News looks at the talking points from the semi-finals of the 2021 NRL NT season

Sharks get reward for effort, Sistaz send statement and make or break for Nightcliff. WHAT WE LEARNED FROM NRL NT SEMI-FINAL ACTION.

THE NT News looks at some of the main talking points from a massive semi-final weekend of the 2021 NRL NT season.

Sharks and Palmerston were the big winners in the men’s league while Sistaz and Palmerston triumped in the women’s contest.

SHARKS GET REWARD FOR EFFORT

Sharks’ captain Jacob Collie was overjoyed with the win against Nightcliff Picture: Che Chorley

It has been a long road back for the Northern Sharks but they’re back in the big dance after languishing outside of finals for the past three years.

And it was effort and determination that got them there with captain Jacob Collie leading from the front while his troops played their roles behind him.

It was a tight first half against Nightcliff as both sides made mistakes following a forced week’s break but the Sharks had complete control in the second half.

Cooper Segeyaro impressed in the backs alongside half back Mitchell Burke while Jayden and Bradley Sneddon picked up three tries between them.

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SISTAZ SEND MESSAGE TO THE REST OF THE LEAGUE

Sistaz’ Talia Corrie scored a brace against Northern Sharks. Picture: Che Chorley

If there was anything to take from Sistaz 44-0 demolition of Northern Sharks in the major semi-final it’s that they’re ready for finals.

It’s been an up and down year for the side that has dealt with key injuries but even then they won the minor premiership and have eyes for nothing other than back-to-back titles.

Their consistent performers once again stood up with Bianca Stokes managing a hat-trick while Talia Corrie grabbed a brace of tries.

The younger players also showed their ability with Abi Sekitoga, Tyla Kingdon and Ellie Niki all impressing with powerful runs and smart passing.

They will be waiting for whoever comes their way in the grand final.

MAKE OR BREAK FOR NIGHTCLIFF

Nightcliff's Clint Chettle has the speed his side needs if they to fight their way back into the grand final. Picture: Che Chorley

Nightcliff may have picked up the minor premiership but it’s all uphill now following their semi-final loss to Sharks.

Their remaining opposition, Palmerston and Sharks, have both won their most recent encounters but perhaps more importantly have both won their most recent encounters against the Dragons.

That leaves the side in an unusual position considering their 2021 form as a whole but there’s still plenty for their supporters to be hopeful of.

Nightcliff still has plenty of firepower including their three pronged creative unit of Robbie Butcher, Matt Woolmington and Brent Crisp who when given the chance can blow the game wide open.

Outside the trio they have the pace and power of Clint Chettle among others but first they need to get on the front foot up front.

The preliminary final against Palmerston promises to be a tight affair with seasons on the line.

PALMERSTON LOOKING TO SHAKE OFF FINALS WEAKNESS

It’s no secret that Palmerston have struggled in previous years once finals come around but their win over the reigning premiers Brothers in the minor semi-final was a step in the right direction.

They’ve been the form side in recent weeks picking up wins against their major rivals and some of those have been by significant margins.

Their side has gelled and now they’re a formidable force with forward power from Tom Murphy and Joel Turaga while Tevita Kanalagi and Matthew Johnson have been scoring machines in the backs.

They still have a task ahead of them with minor premiers Nightcliff in the preliminary final but a win there will help them shake off their finals weakness.