The Sharks hit back powerfully following their loss to the Griquas last weekend as they beat the Bulls comprehensively in a great Currie Cup match in Durban on Saturday. The 34-28 bonus point win saw the home side score five tries, while the Bulls crossed for three of their own in what was a fast paced game throughout.
Sharks coach John Plumtree said afterwards that the game was 'A very good advertisement for Currie Cup rugby, an excellent game of rugby.'
While both sides had Test players missing, there was still an array of talent on show as youth and experience combined on both sides to produce an enjoyable game. Lwazi Mvovo and Keegan Daniel were stars for the Sharks, with eighthman Daniel scoring two tries, including a chip and chase effort down the wing. Springbok JP Pietersen also played well after coming back from a lengthy injury layoff.
Youngster Patrick Lambie, who was featured in the Five young stars to look out for in the future of world rugby video a few days ago, was moved to centre for the match and despite his inexperience, excelled, playing a part in a few of the tries.
"I admit I was a bit nervous I did throw him in at the deep end - but he he did very well. He has all the qualities needed when playing in the thick of the action: vision and a long passing game. He has good balance and he showed that in shrugging off tackles and setting up a try for Keegan Daniel. His tackling is also accurate and his kicking adds another dimension. But I dont want to blow smoke, these are early days and this is just the start for him," said Plumtree.
Sharks hooker Craig Burden also had a storming match, with numerous big carries and a great try, while Lock Ross Skeate, who wrote for RD last week , made his Sharks debut late in the game. He'll hopefully see more game time soon, but said he was thrilled with the result.
Coach of the Blue Bulls, Frans Ludeke, said that despite the loss, it was a good contest. "It was a very good game of rugby with both teams playing positive rugby. They were dangerous in broken play even though we defended well. Their new combinations in the backline worked well and they certainly deserved to win."
More Currie Cup action will be featured soon.
Time: 04:12
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