Gallen racing clock to final

PAUL Gallen is still in serious doubt to run out for Cronulla in Friday night’s preliminary final against Melbourne but teammates Luke Lewis and Josh Dugan appear set to play.

Gallen’s injured shoulder showed improvement yesterday but there was still tenderness and he is racing the clock.

He was named by the Sharks, alongside the retiring Lewis who suffered a calf injury last week against Penrith.

Lewis was certain yesterday he would play in the AAMI Park match, which will be the last in his 18-season NRL career if Cronulla don’t win through.

“It’s coming along really well,” Lewis said of his calf.

“I had a really good run today and came off the park pain-free and feeling fresh ... It should be fine Friday night.

“I thought about (it being potentially my last game) last week, turning up to training and driving to training, thinking wow, this could be my last week in rugby league forever.

“I asked the boys last week to give me everything they’ve got and give me one more week.”

Dugan was also named by Cronulla on an extended bench and could either come on to the wing or into the centres.

“Duges is looking great. He had a really good run today. He is lifting some good weights in the gym,” Lewis said.