Cronulla Sharks have crashed to their sixth successive loss in controversial circumstances at Penrith Stadium tonight.

The Panthers won a close fought match by 24-22 with Tony Puletua scoring a double.

Cronulla complained to referee Tony Archer following an offside incident which led to Penrith's winning try. Earlier in the match, the Sharks were awarded a try from what appeared to be a forward pass.

Panthers 24 (Tries: Puletua 2, Hicks, Bell, Elford. Goals: Reynolds 1/1, Hicks 1/4) Sharks 22 (Tries: Graham, Best, Gibson, Campbell. Goals: Kimmorley 3/4)