The Belconnen United Sharks are building the fundamentals for a promising season with increased depth across the board of all grades. The Sharks are looking down the barrel of a finals rebirth in 2022.
Season 2021 was quite a promising one for the Belconnen United Sharks, moving into their new home at NSWRL HQ in Bruce after what was quite a dull period throughout the tough times of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Sharks showed some glimpses of consistency throughout their 2021 campaign but were placed one spot out of the finals in sixth spot, after the competition was abandoned in round 15.
The CRC first grade side have recruited quite well, signing Darcy Leadbitter, a young country outside-back who brings some strike either on an edge or from the back.
The club have also attained talent in Shaun Fensom who brings incredible NRL experience, having played 176 NRL games for Canberra, North Queensland and Brisbane.
Sharks five-eighth Matt Woolnough who lead the club in points on the best and fairest leaderboard last year, spoke upon their two trial matches and their preparations towards an exciting 2022 season.
“From our previous trial I think we need to tighten up the middle a bit. But, we did have a few missing. I think what we’re looking for moving forward is a bit more effort,” Woolnough said.
“I feel like we’ve got a lot more depth this year which is going to help a lot. Our reserve grade, we’re going to have a few strong players who can play firsts and reserves which is great,” Woolnough added.
Sharks LLT player Emily Charlton reflected on their season last year and how they're preparing for a huge 2022 campaign.
“Preseason has been awesome. We’ve been getting some really good numbers to training which is good. The girls are really motivated from last year. As you know, the competition being cut short due to covid last year. That was our opportunity to sneak into the top four," Charlton said.
Last year we had some huge defensive efforts. That was a massive highlight for the team. We were acknowledged by some other clubs for doing that. So although our defence was quite strong last year, our focus has been on improving our attack.”
The Sharks will host the Goulburn City Bulldogs at NSWRL HQ, Bruce, on Saturday April 2nd.
