The Sharks emerged victorious with a 12-3 win over the Scarlets in their final United Rugby Championship league phase match at Kings Park Stadium. Despite the lack of tries, the game was intense and closely contested.
Both teams struggled to find their rhythm in the early stages of the match, with neither side able to break the deadlock in the first 30 minutes. The Sharks had more possession and territory but failed to capitalize on their opportunities, often losing the ball at crucial moments.
The first points of the game came from a penalty kick by the Sharks in the 38th minute, giving them a slim lead. However, the Scarlets responded just before halftime with a well-executed drop-goal by flyhalf Sam Costelow, leveling the score at 3-3.
The second half started slowly, with the Sharks managing to edge ahead with another penalty kick in the 53rd minute converted by Aphelele Fassi. Despite making substitutions in the 55th minute, the Sharks struggled to extend their lead and lacked the killer instinct in the attacking third.
The Sharks managed to secure two more penalty kicks, one in the 68th minute and another in the final minute of the game, sealing the victory. The Scarlets, on the other hand, were unable to mount a significant challenge and could only manage the drop-goal they scored in the first half.
In terms of scorers, Siya Masuku converted one penalty for the Sharks, while Aphelele Fassi successfully kicked three penalties. For the Scarlets, Sam Costelow was accurate with his drop-goal attempt.
The match also had a personal touch, as Sharks coach John Plumtree’s son, Taine, played for the Scarlets as their No. 8. Despite a solid defensive performance, Taine Plumtree had limited opportunities to make an impact in attack.
Overall, it was a gritty and hard-fought victory for the Sharks, who will take confidence from their performance as they look ahead to the next phase of the competition. The Scarlets, on the other hand, will need to regroup and work on their attacking game to bounce back from this defeat.
