Replacement prop Ntuthuko Mchunu scored two tries as the Sharks completed a dramatic comeback against the Lions at Kings Park on Saturday to book a home semi-final.
The result extends the Sharks’ current Currie Cup hot streak to seven wins and they will head into the final round of league matches in first place on the table.
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With the match deadlocked at 14-14 at the break, the Sharks needed Mchunu’s try-double in the second half to secure a 29-21 victory.
It was the Lions who started fast, scoring two tries – through flanker Emmanuel Tshituka and prop Ruan Dreyer, with scrumhalf Sanele Nohamba adding the extras – to race into a 14-0 lead.
The Sharks hit back through hooker Fez Mbatha and an intercept try from winger Aphelele Fassi with flyhalf Lionel Cronje levelling the scores before half time.
72’ | 26 – 21 | Ntuthuko Mchunu with another try ?#FearTheFin #CurrieCup #SHAvLIO pic.twitter.com/PH4G4Zts5h
— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) June 3, 2023
The hosts took the lead for the first time immediately after the restart, Mchunu showcasing his strength to dot down. However, the lead was shortlived as Nohamba sniped to score under the poles, tying it up.
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With the match hanging in the balance at the start of the final quarter, Mchunu rumbled across the line for his second before a penalty from fullback Nevaldo Fleurs completed the comeback.
Photo: Gerhard Duraan/BackpagePix
