Nicho Hynes arrived at Cronulla this off-season with question marks over whether he was the right man to guide Craig Fitzgibbon's new-look Sharks.
But 20 rounds into the season it's clear any doubts over Hynes' ability to become a long-term No.7 at the Sharks were misplaced.
The halfback kicked the winning field goal in Saturday's golden point extra-time 21-20 win over South Sydney, and in doing so strengthened Cronulla's grip on a top-four spot.
Halfbacks earn the big bucks for a reason and in his first year as a starting No.7 the former Melbourne Storm utility has now used a field goal to secure wins over Souths and the Gold Coast.
"I've come here to try and win those big games and those moments and I keep working hard on it," Hynes said.
"In previous years I've had Cameron Munster, Jahrome Hughes and Cameron Smith there (to take the shot).
"I've come here to own this team. They're my team and I'm the halfback and I've got to own those moments and I'm glad I did."
Hynes' clutch strike came after halves partner Matt Moylan had blown two field-goal chances and was the result of working with former French rugby union international Frederic Michalak on his kicking technique over the last month.
The Sharks will believe they can leapfrog North Queensland to secure second spot to lock up a home final.
Fitzgibbon's side come out of July with their heads held high, a loss to premiers Penrith the only blemish in a month when they have knocked off the Cowboys, Melbourne and Souths.
With games against St George Illawarra, Wests Tigers, Manly, Canterbury and Newcastle to finish the season, they will hope their end to the season will be a little more straightforward.
"It's been massive," Hynes said of the Sharks' last month. "The Storm and Cowboys had a couple out but they still have systems.
"Penrith was a massive game and Souths are on the rise.
"We knew it was a massive month for us and to come out 3-1 and that will put some respect on our name.
"We want to sit in that top four and we will keep hunting for the big teams."
The only downside for the Sharks was a suspected shoulder injury to prop Royce Hunt, who was spotted leaving the ground on Saturday night in a sling.
