Griquas scored five tries in the second half to recover from an 18-point deficit and overhaul the Sharks for a dramatic Currie Cup victory in Kimberley on Sunday.
Trailing 28-10 at the break, Griquas ambushed the Sharks in the second half, scoring 38 points to claim a 48-40 victory.
Flyhalf Lubabalo Dobela was perfect from the kicking tee, converting five tries and two penalties. One of those penalties, together with a penalty try, accounted for all of Griquas points in the first half, while the Sharks dotted down via centre Francois Venter, hooker Fez Mbatha, scrumhalf Cameron Wright and winger Yaw Penxe, all successfully converted by Fred Zeilinga for a solid half-time lead.
But Griquas roared to life in the third quarter, tries from flanker Stephan Smit and winger Luther Obi bringing them within striking distance.
Replacement no 8 Hanru Sirgel’s try in the 48th-minute gave the hosts the lead for the first time, and scrumhalf Johan Mulder and replacement hooker Janco Uys extended that advantage to 48-28.
The Sharks rediscovered their bite – flanker Dylan Richardson scoring two quickfire tries in the final three minutes – but it was too little too late and Griquas held on to claim their first victory of the season.
NEVER SAY DIE❌
Last season's "Comeback Kings" @GriquasRugby continue the trend with a strong second half performance to get a bonus point and their first win of the 2023 #CurrieCup ?
?: Windhoek Draught Griquas#WhereLegendsRise pic.twitter.com/am2HPd9hEj
— The Currie Cup (@TheCurrieCup) March 19, 2023
Photo: Twitter/@TheCurrieCup