The Sharks tackled Griquas into submission to clinch a vital Currie Cup victory at Kings Park on Saturday.
The Durbanites fortified third place with a 24-6 win that puts them four points clear of Griquas on the standings, and narrows the gap on the Pumas in second place.
Don’t get too comfortable @griquasrugby and @sharksrugby fans?#CurrieCup #WhereLegendsRise pic.twitter.com/fMdcEooXps
— The Currie Cup (@TheCurrieCup) April 27, 2023
READ: Foster warns of All Blacks ‘disaster’
Leading 14-6 at half time courtesy of tries from centre Alwayno Visagie and hooker Kerron Van Vuuren, the Sharks then kept Griquas scoreless in the second half, with veteran flyhalf Lionel Cronje producing a flawless kicking display off the tee.
Griquas flyhalf Eddie Fouche kept the scoreboard ticking in the first half with two long-range penalties but the hosts controlled possession, playing in the right areas of the field as they were rewarded for their efforts through Visagie and Van Vuuren.
The second half was a more attritional affair as the rain began to pile down in Durban. Cronje added another three shortly after the break before scrumhalf Bradley Davids capped off a spectacular try that originated inside their own half.
The hosts pushed valiantly for a bonus-point try but mistakes at crucial moments cost them.
Plus: Jake: Marcell is Bulls’ Brannas
The Sharks will look to make it three-in-a-row when they travel to Loftus Versfeld to face the Bulls next week while Griquas look to bounce back when they host the Lions.
HOLDING FIRM?@SharksRugby strengthen their grip on third place with victory over fourth place @GriquasRugby ?#CurrieCup #WhereLegendsRise pic.twitter.com/IOKPSsOHAK
— The Currie Cup (@TheCurrieCup) April 29, 2023
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images