The Sharks refused last week to enter into any bidding for former Parramatta Eels Test star, Timana Tahu, despite remaining one of the few clubs who could afford to buy him under the salary cap.

The Sharks already have more than $200,000 to spend but by June that figure could effectively triple when contracts for 2012 are being prepared.

Coach Shane Flanagan has warned more than half his top squad that they are effectively playing for their future, with at least 15 of the top 30 players coming off contract this season.

Flanagan said he was "very happy" with his squad going into the 2011 season but wants players on the edge to "step up" this season.

The Sharks will build the side around internationals Paul Gallen, Jeremy Smith and Anthony Tupou, as well as fullback Nathan Gardner, half Wade Graham, NSW Origin prop forward Kade Snowden and fellow prop, Luke Douglas.

Although Snowden is being pursued by his old club, Newcastle Knights, the Sharks have made a large counter offer to their young giant. However, a Sharks spokesman said the club would not be deterred from their plan and would not enter into "any ridiculous bidding war" over Snowden — or anyone else.

Flanagan said he was "reasonably happy" after his squad had their first trial against Manly Sea Eagles at Brookvale Oval on Saturday night despite the 18-0 scoreline.

A Sharks B side played the first half and went to the break 12-0 down.

Then the Sharks top side — minus seven players including captain Paul Gallen, Jeremy Smith, Wade Graham and John Morris — looked the goods by dominating the first 20 minutes, with handling letting them down in various try-scoring opportunities.

Under 20s youngster Albert Kelly, 5-6 kilograms heavier, added plenty of spark to the attack and confirmed the Sharks early assessment that he would stake a strong claim for the five-eighth spot in the Sharks NRL squad, leaving Tim Smith to battle it out with Penrith recruit, Wade Graham, for the No. 7 position.

Anthony Tupou and Jayson Bukuya, the Fijian World Cup rep who missed last season because of shoulder surgery, also caught the eye behind the good work of the Sharks front row while outside backs Nathan Stapleton and Colin Best also had their moments.

Flanagan intends to trial his entire main squad in the second and last trial — against Newcastle at Muswellbrook on Saturday, February 26.

In the earlier under 20s game, the Sharks unearthed some fine prospects in their 20-8 victory.