Clifford’s a Shark repellent

ROOKIE playmaker Jake Clifford has vowed to back his attacking instincts as the Cowboys look to combat Cronulla’s patient, grinding style at Shark Park tomorrow night.

The Sharks use their big forward pack to wear teams down before finding opportunities for their attacking weapons like fullback Valentine Holmes to strike.

It was how they toppled the Storm in Melbourne last weekend and it could be just as effective with the Cowboys, who have been struggling in the attacking zone.

The Cowboys have enjoyed more success by throwing the ball around in recent weeks, scoring 20 points or more in their past three matches.

Clifford had the best game of his fledgling first-grade career against the Broncos last weekend, coming up with a late try assist and two linebreak assists to steer the Cowboys to a 34-30 victory.

Coach Paul Green has urged Clifford to play with that confidence from the opening whistle and the Tully product said it was his intention to come out firing.

“I feel a lot more comfortable and a bit more confident,” Clifford said about finding his feet at NRL level.

Co-captain Matt Scott said the Cowboys were prepared to chance their arm tomorrow night, but he stressed the importance of still playing controlled footy.

Scott said the Sharks “use their size and speed to wear teams down and come over the top of them at the end”.