An understrength Cronulla side produced a stirring effort to beat a near full strength Parramatta 24-18 in an NRL trial match at Lismore.

Leading 18-6 at halftime the Sharks were overrun in the third quarter by the new-look Eels outfit, boasting several new recruits, to be joined 18-all at the final break.

With new signing Glenn Morrison running riot the Eels looked destined for victory but costly errors placed the Eels defence under unnecessary pressure.

The Sharks attacked strongly, and after several dangerous chances Sharks lock Cameron Ciraldo crossed for the winning try with two minutes left on the clock.

Sharks coach Stuart Raper was delighted with the victory, given he didn't field several first graders like Brett Kimmorley and David Peachey.

"It is always good to win and to beat Parramatta with this side is more of an achievement," said Raper who highlighted the efforts of David Simmons, Keith Galloway and Matt Hilder.

"Still it is only a trial and the main thing is we came through injury free and a lot of new players got first grade experience.

"There were a few things I was aiming for and looking for tonight and they were achieved."

The victory with a very inexperienced side has given Raper confidence the offseason has ended his two headaches from 2004.

"The two things we did not have last year was depth and pressure from the guys below," said Raper.

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