Fitzy's philosophies: Why Moylan wanted to stay a Shark

On the back of his man-of-the-match performance in last night’s 28-6 victory over the Melbourne Storm, Sharks star five-eighth Matt Moylan has signed a two-year contract extension with Cronulla.

The in-form 31-year-old gave Cronulla’s powerbrokers every reason to extend his contract last night, with two try assists and an overall outstanding performance against a depleted Storm side.

There is no doubt the Blacktown Junior’s decision to extend his contract was made easier with the success of new head coach Craig Fitzgibbon, who Moylan said has “instilled a lot of confidence” into himself and the playing group.

“Since Fitzy came in at pre-season, he’s got us working hard and buying into his principles and philosophies,” Moylan told pan66.com after his impressive performance for the Sharks on Thursday.

“He’s obviously instilled a lot of confidence into the playing group and, speaking personally for myself, I think he’s really set the tone for what we’ve been building towards.

“I’ve really enjoyed working with Fitzy and the confidence that he’s given us to go out and play the style of footy that we want to play.”

Following the announcement on Friday, Moylan said he was "really grateful" to stay at the club he has played 74 games for since joining in 2018.

“I’m really excited to play some good footy leading into the back end of this year and hopefully can contribute over the next couple of years, keep improving and doing my role for the team,” Moylan said.

“I’m really enjoying my footy, I’ve obviously been able to play every game this year which has been something that I haven’t been able to do previously.

“I’m also really enjoying the training side of things and being able to be on the paddock and build some combinations with the playing group.”