Craig Fitzgibbon faces scrutiny following Cronulla Sharks loss to Parramatta Eels
Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 31, 2026, 9:24 PM
Last updated Aug 31, 2026

The Cronulla Sharks dropped a 38-18 result against the Parramatta Eels on Sunday, further complicating the club's push for a top-four finish. Coach Craig Fitzgibbon drew criticism for his post-match comments, which focused on refereeing decisions rather than his team’s performance. During the contest, Fitzgibbon was observed striking a computer monitor in frustration as the Sharks struggled to maintain intensity. Tom Hazelton was sin-binned for a tackle deemed a hip drop, an incident that resulted in a one-match suspension. Despite possessing a significant share of ball possession in the second half, the Sharks failed to convert pressure into points against the Eels. This result leaves the club in a precarious position regarding their late-season finals aspirations, with internal calls for roster adjustments intensifying among the fan base.
- •The Parramatta Eels defeated the Cronulla Sharks 38-18 on Sunday.
- •Craig Fitzgibbon received criticism for blaming refereeing for the loss.
- •Tom Hazelton will serve a one-match suspension following a sin-binning for a tackle.
- •The loss negatively impacts the Sharks' prospects of securing a top-four finish.
- 9:24 PMZero Tackle NRL — Craig Fitzgibbon’s press conference shows he still doesn’t get it
"Despite being in his fifth year, he's still making rookie errors.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NRL•Oct 19, 2026, 7:24 PMBostock drops telling hint over NRL future as Dolphins, Dragons scramble
NRL•Oct 19, 2026, 7:22 AMPenisini among two new signings for Brisbane Broncos
NRL•Oct 19, 2026, 4:54 AMAn apology to Reece Walsh, the unfair draw and pre-match goosebumps: 20 thoughts from Rugby League World Cup, Week 1
NRL•Oct 19, 2026, 3:34 AMFIVE November 1 NRL contract targets: Cronulla Sharks
NRL•Oct 19, 2026, 2:59 AMFooty finals superstition comes at a cost – now it’s time to face the beard
NRL•Oct 19, 2026, 1:29 AMFijian prop charged by MRC after dominant win against Cook Islands
