The Sharks kick-started their season with a bonus-point victory against the Scarlets at Kings Park on Saturday.
This was a must-win fixture for John Plumtree’s men after three defeats and a draw left them 14th on the URC log – and while unconvincing, the 29-19 triumph will come as welcome relief going into the international break.
For the Scarlets, who face an uncertain future after the Welsh Rugby Union’s decision to cut a URC club, it was a fourth successive defeat.
The Sharks suffered a setback before kick-off when Siya Masuku was ruled out, with Jean Smith starting at 10.
But it didn’t prevent the hosts from making a fast start, as flanker Vincent Tshituka finished off a sustained attack.
The Scarlets hit back through Springbok hooker Marnus van der Merwe, but Sharks No 8 Emmanuel Tshituka then joined his brother on the scoresheet.
Sharp hands from the Hollywoodbets Sharks
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Fullback Blair Murray responded for the visitors after chasing down his own kick, before prop Lee-Marvin Mazibuko powered over from a lineout maul to give the Sharks a 19-14 half-time lead.
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The Scarlets levelled early in the second half through winger Tom Rogers, but Kolisi crossed for a bonus-point try to restore the hosts’ lead.
Smith then slotted a penalty goal to give the hosts a 10-point cushion, before excellent Sharks defence kept the Scarlets out.
When the tournament resumes in a month’s time, the Sharks will take on Connacht in Galway with the Scarlets hosting Glasgow.
SHARKS – Tries: Vincent Tshituka, Emmanuel Tshituka, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Siya Kolisi. Conversions: Jean Smith (3). Penalty: Smith.
SCARLETS – Tries: Marnus van der Merwe, Blair Murray, Tom Rogers. Conversion: Sam Costelow (2).
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
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