The Cronulla Sharks have won their first National Rugby League premiership beating Melbourne 14‑12 in a historic grand final in Sydney.
The Sharks, without a trophy since joining the competition in 1967, dominated early for an 8‑0 lead at half‑time.
A ninth‑minute penalty goal from James Maloney opened the scoring before Gallen sent Ben Barba over for the first try of the final in the 15th minute after a nicely worked scrum feed.
But in the second half Cronulla conceded two tries to let the Storm back in the game.
Jesse Bromwich finally put Melbourne on the board with a try in the 50th minute, before Will Chambers crossed out wide to put the minor premiers into the lead for the first time in the 64th minute.
But the Cronulla prop Andrew Fifita sealed the famous win with a try under the posts in the 70th minute, which was converted by James Maloney.
The Storm did make several try‑scoring attempts in the final few minutes of the match, to keep the fans on the edge of their seats.
Sharks captain Paul Gallen set a record for the most games played, 279, for a premiership win and said it was a tough‑fought final.
Fiji Bati forward Jayson Bukuya was impressive for the Sharks last night.
