Cronulla remains winless after six rounds of the National Rugby League, but coach Chris Anderson and captain Brett Kimmorley believe the club has turned the corner.

The Sharks were beaten 32-24 by Newcastle at Toyota Park, but there was a lot to like about their performance.

They led 24-22 with 11 minutes remaining, Kimmorley was back to his best and the forward pack at least matched the Knights.

But then the coolest head in the game - Newcastle captain Andrew Johns - prevailed, orchestrating the Knights in the final 10 minutes as they remained in a share of third place behind Canberra and the Sydney Roosters.

"We found a bit of club spirit today," Kimmorley said.

"I think we turned the corner for the club...and I think the future is looking good for us.

"We were disappointed with how we went in the last five weeks so it was probably about the 17 blokes who were there today showing faith in themselves.

"I can handle getting beat because we had a go."

Anderson conceded the Sharks needed to start winning - and quickly.

"We do as a club, we do as a team. I don't think it's necessarily a bad thing to go through tough times.

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