Cronulla halfback Nicho Hynes has shared insights about how Nathan Cleary has assisted him in overcoming a finals drought and how he intends to leverage this support in their upcoming preliminary final clash. Hynes, often criticized as a playmaker in the NRL, entered the recent semi-final against the Cowboys with a four-game losing streak in finals matches. However, he broke this pattern, leading the Sharks to a 26-18 victory alongside five-eighth Braydon Trindall, thereby silencing many skeptics.
As Hynes prepares to face Cleary again, he acknowledges the valuable mental strategies he learned from the Panthers star to cope with the pressures of the season. “My ego’s not too big that I can’t ask my peers for help,” Hynes stated, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance from those who have faced similar challenges. He noted that Cleary has gone through difficulties early in his career, making their bond even more meaningful.
The friendship between Hynes and Cleary has strengthened over time, built on mutual respect from their competitive encounters on the field. After witnessing Cleary lead an impressive comeback in last year’s grand final, Hynes sought his insights. That match marked Penrith’s third consecutive premiership, a feat that highlighted Cleary’s ability to manage the immense pressure that comes with such expectations.
Having moved to Cronulla, Hynes quickly recognized the intensity of the Sydney media landscape and fanbase, which made him appreciate Cleary’s composure even more. Cleary, willing to share his experience, visited Hynes during the offseason, offering invaluable advice that Hynes hopes will be advantageous when they meet in the preliminary final.
To succeed, the Sharks will need to overcome the psychological barrier created by their earlier 42-0 defeat to Penrith this season. That game was a particularly difficult moment for Hynes, who suffered a calf injury that affected his preparation for the State of Origin series. Since that match, he has also dealt with a fractured ankle, but now, with his finals struggles behind him, he feels ready to challenge the Panthers.
Reflecting on the upcoming match, Hynes expressed the need for his team to respect Penrith’s impressive record but also to approach the game with confidence. “Every club’s trying to end the dynasty,” he remarked, acknowledging the Panthers’ three consecutive premierships, a feat not achieved since the 1980s. He urged the Sharks’ supporters to rally behind the team, as their presence could be crucial against a formidable opponent intent on winning a fourth title.
Overall, Hynes is focused on his preparation and is determined to leverage the lessons he’s learned from Cleary, believing that the Sharks have what it takes to overcome their rivals and put an end to the Panthers’ reign in the NRL.
