Matt Moylan has come a long way in the space of 12 months but the Cronulla five-eighth says there's no time for self reflection as the Sharks focus on Friday's preliminary final with Melbourne.
Moylan missed last year’s finals series with Penrith due to personal reasons but is back on the big stage, playing a key role in Cronulla’s victory over his former side last week to advance to the grand final qualifier against the Storm at AAMI Park.
Despite the narrative surrounding him, Moylan has stopped short of thinking about the difference a year makes, instead hoping his footballing year lasts another week.
"I’ve enjoyed my year, but hopefully it goes a bit longer, goes another week, but we got a big job ahead of us tomorrow night,” he said.
"I haven’t thought too much about the season so far, just want to make sure I’m playing footy and doing my role."
The Sharks have had the Storm’s number in recent times, winning four of their last five meetings, including the two matches with them this season.
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According to Moylan, nullifying Melbourne’s chances, and taking better care of the ball themselves, will be the key in defeating them for the third time in 12 months.
"We did a really good job at limiting their opportunities but in saying that, we are going to have to do the same again tomorrow and make sure we are not coughing up ball that we did last week against Penrith," he said.
"Especially in that second half we gave them a lot of opportunities and I think with Melbourne, if you give them too many opportunities on your line, they will make you pay. That’s one thing we are going to have to clean up."
Anticipation for the clash has been assisted by a war of words between the two sides throughout the week, with Matt Prior and Craig Bellamy making headlines.
However, Moylan hasn’t been caught up in the off-field banter. "News to me," he said.
"All I’m worried about is making sure I’m doing everything right to play well for the team tomorrow."
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Cronulla will send plenty of traffic towards Brodie Croft but Moylan said they were not underestimating the 21-year-old halfback.
"With the way he played against Souths in that first final, he is not overawed by the situation," Moylan said.
"I think he is playing some good footy. In saying that, it is a big game, and hopefully we can make his job tough."
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