But, new centre Blake Champion is hoping his second appearance ends on a more positive note this Sunday when the Group 2 outfit faces the Dunghutti Broncos at the Regional Sports Stadium.

The Sharks, following their 42-24 loss to the Bellingen Magpies, slipped to sixth on the ladder – and into the “danger zone” with the play-offs fast approaching.

However, the doom and gloom of the defeat was offset by the performance of Champion, who finished behind captain Michael Bright in the players’ player awards.

“In all honesty, I’d rather have won and played badly, then lost and played well,” he told the Port News.

“Although it was my first game with the boys, I just went out there and did my job.

“We made too many fundamental mistakes against the Magpies, and our defence let us down at crucial times.”

The uncle of South Sydney star Beau Champion is settling in well after linking up with the Sharks from the Mount Pritchard Mounties, who contest the NSW Rugby League’s Bundaberg Red Cup.

“Beau and I grew up like brothers,” he said.

“We keep in contact, but we’ve also got a lot of family up here.

“Everyone’s made me feel welcome, and I can’t thank people enough.

“It’s been good so far.

“And, there is not much difference between the standard of Group 2 and the Bundaberg Red Cup.

“Even though the game is a bit quicker in Sydney, it appears to be more physical here – well, that’s what I picked up at Bellingen.

“Hopefully, the things I learnt down there, I can pass on to the younger guys in the team.”

While the Sharks felt the wrath of the Magpies in round 11, it was nothing compared to what the Broncos dealt with against the Woolgoolga Sea Horses.

Dunghutti, winless in 2009, was trounced 120-22 and the side has now conceded 729 points this season alone.

Those figures don’t lull Champion into a false sense of security though.

“The Broncos will be ready to turn up, especially knowing they’re playing the Sharks,” he admitted.

“So, we still have to treat them with respect.

“But, we were disappointed with our effort last weekend, and I know the boys are determined to hit back.”

Round 13 draw:

Sunday –

Macksville v Bellingen @ Allen Gillett Oval

Orara Valley v Coffs Harbour @ Coramba

Port Macquarie v Dunghutti Broncos @ Regional Sports Stadium

Macleay Valley v Sawtell @ Verge Street Oval

Woolgoolga v Nambucca Heads @ Woolgoolga