In a remarkable achievement for the Cronulla Sharks, wingers Ronaldo Mulitalo and Sione Katoa have solidified their place in rugby league history. With Mulitalo’s 90th career try against the South Sydney Rabbitohs last week, the duo has become the most prolific pair of starting wingers since the State of Origin era began in 1980. Together, they have amassed a total of 126 tries across 89 games played on the wings.
This achievement surpasses the previous record held by James McManus and Akuila Uate, who scored 125 tries in 104 matches while at Newcastle. As they prepare to host the North Queensland Cowboys on Sunday, Mulitalo also aims to make history by becoming the first player in the National Rugby League (NRL) to score in seven consecutive matches against the Cowboys.
Coaching Perspective on Performance
Despite a challenging year for the pair in terms of scoring—partially due to Katoa’s long-term shoulder injury—Craig Fitzgibbon, the Sharks’ head coach, emphasizes their significant contributions beyond the try count. In 2025, Katoa and Mulitalo are averaging more run metres than in any previous season, showcasing their impact on the field.
“We’re probably a little bit down on tries for wingers at the moment but they’re two out-and-out performers,” Fitzgibbon stated. “Take the try-scoring feats out of it, the way they play, the way they carry out of the back-field and defend, the way they do their job for the team. They’re so important to us.”
Fitzgibbon further noted that both players provide immense energy to the team, making it a privilege to coach them. Their friendship has also flourished since Katoa joined the Sharks’ U20s in 2017, despite their contrasting personalities.
Diverse Personalities, Unified Goals
While Mulitalo is known for his extroverted nature, often engaging with teammates and visitors alike, Katoa is more reserved and enjoys quieter moments, such as fishing. Katoa reflected on their dynamic, saying, “We’re close, me and Ronnie, but we’re both different people. He’s more loud and I like to be a bit quiet sometimes. But I can be loud when I’m around the boys.”
Both players have expressed their excitement about competing with the Sharks, who are aiming for a top-four finish this season. Katoa, who has returned from an extended layoff due to injury, shared his eagerness to be back on the field. “I was away for a long time, the longest I’ve been away from footy,” he said. “But I just wanted to get back into it and have fun again and find where I was having fun, whether it was at training with the boys or scoring tries, chasing kicks.”
As the Sharks continue their campaign, Mulitalo and Katoa’s remarkable achievements and unique partnership serve as a testament to their dedication and skill, making them one of the standout duos in the league.
