Cronulla Sharks vs Gold Coast Titans Tips and Prediction
Cronulla open their season at home with a matchup they have dominated for years.
The Sharks have won 11 of the last 12 meetings against the Titans and with a settled spine and one of the most dangerous attacks in the competition, this looks another spot where they can pile on points.
Gold Coast are still trying to build consistency under Josh Hannay and arrive here after conceding 30 points per game last season.
How this game shapes up
Cronulla head into 2026 with a familiar squad and a clear identity. The spine of Kennedy, Trindall, Hynes and Brailey has played plenty of football together and Addin Fonua-Blake gives them serious presence through the middle.
This is a team that knows how it wants to play and when their attack clicks they can overwhelm opponents quickly.
Gold Coast remain a dangerous attacking side on their day, but defence has been their biggest issue for several seasons now.
The Titans conceded 30 points per game in 2025 and finished second last on the ladder. Losing Jayden Campbell for this game also removes one of their most dangerous attacking weapons.
Best Bets
Cronulla Sharks -11.5
Cronulla have dominated this matchup for years, winning 11 of the last 12 meetings and regularly putting big scores on the Titans. With a settled spine and strong attacking structure, the Sharks look well placed to cover the line.
Sione Katoa Anytime Tryscorer
Katoa continues to be one of Cronulla’s most reliable finishers and scored a double in the last meeting between these sides. If the Sharks create the attacking pressure expected, he should be around the action again.
What could go wrong?
Gold Coast have plenty of attacking talent and if their forward pack can generate momentum through Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Moeaki Fotuaika, they can create opportunities.
And if the Titans tighten up defensively under Josh Hannay, the margin could stay closer than expected.
