Sharks Stun Pumas! Currie Cup Drama Intensifies – Here's What Happened!

The Hollywoodbets Sharks, boosted by URC players, secured a hard-fought 19-13 victory over the Airlink Pumas in their final Carling Currie Cup pool match at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Friday night. This result significantly impacts the Pumas' chances of reaching the semi-finals.

The Sharks, already out of contention for the playoffs, used this match to give valuable game time to players returning from the United Rugby Championship (URC), providing them with a chance to shake off any rustiness ahead of the next season. Despite the victory, the Sharks' performance showed signs of a team that hadn't played together recently, with several missed opportunities in the first half.

The Pumas, on the other hand, desperately needed a win to solidify their place in the top four. They managed to secure a losing bonus point, which moves them into fourth position on the log. However, their fate now rests on the results of other matches. To progress to the semi-finals, the Pumas need the Cheetahs to lose to the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday without securing a bonus point.

Key Moments of the Match

The first half was a tight affair, with both teams struggling to convert opportunities into points. Pumas hooker Eduan Swart received a yellow card for a no-arms tackle, but the Pumas actually managed to score points while he was off the field, thanks to two penalties from flyhalf Clinton Swart. The Sharks also suffered a setback when lock Emile van Heerden was forced off with an injury.

The second half saw a marked improvement in the Sharks' performance. Fullback Yaw Penxe scored the first try of the match after chasing down a kick from flyhalf Siya Masuku. Replacement No. 8 Phepsi Buthelezi then added a second try, stepping past a defender close to the ruck. Masuku converted to give the Sharks a 12-6 lead.

The Pumas responded with a try of their own, scored by winger Lundi Msenge after a cross-kick from scrumhalf Ross Braude. Swart converted from the touchline to bring the Pumas back into the game. However, the Sharks sealed the victory with a try from centre Francois Venter, who ran an excellent line to score. The Sharks then managed to control the final minutes of the match to secure the win.

Scorers:

• Sharks: Tries: Yaw Penxe, Phepsi Buthelezi, Francois Venter. Conversions: Siya Masuku (2).
• Pumas: Try: Lundi Msenge. Conversion: Clinton Swart. Penalties: Swart (2).

The Sharks' victory leaves the Pumas on the brink of Currie Cup exit, highlighting the intense competition and drama of this year's tournament.