THE Cronulla Sharks’ unbeaten streak in Coffs Harbour came to a dramatic end last Friday night, succumbing to a determined Gold Coast Titans outfit 20-16 at C.ex Coffs International Stadium.

The Sharks couldn’t have scripted a worse start.

Titans captain Kieran Foran crossed the line for an early try, setting the tone for the evening.

Things went from bad to worse for Cronulla when Sifa Talakai was sent to the sin bin for a high tackle.

The Titans capitalised on their ten minute numerical advantage, quickly adding another try to their tally.

The Sharks showed glimpses of their attacking prowess, pushing hard at the Titans’ try line.

Twice they thought they had scored, only to be denied by a knock-on and a last-ditch defensive effort that bundled Will Kennedy out of play just before he could ground the ball.

Despite launching a spirited second-half comeback, the Sharks’ efforts were in vain.

Their unbeaten record at C.ex Coffs International Stadium was shattered, leaving them to rue missed opportunities and costly errors.

In a touching moment before kickoff, 98-year-old Maisie Miller stole the spotlight.

Given the honour of the coin toss, Maisie was the darling of the evening, charming both Titans captain Kieran Foran and Sharks captain Cameron McInnes with her intoxicating love of the game.

They shared a warm chat about Maisie’s half-century of support for the Coffs Harbour Comets.

Maisie, with the biggest smile in the stadium, recounted her experience.

“They were all so kind,” she said.

“The referee even brought me the 50-cent piece afterwards and said I could keep it as a souvenir.

“I’m 99 this year and have been supporting the Coffs Harbour Comets for 50 years.

“We were called the Banana Benders back then, and I still wear the same colours to this day,” she beamed.

Though the Sharks’ night ended in disappointment, Maisie’s presence was a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit and passion that makes rugby league so special.

By David WIGLEY