Post Match: Hollywoodbets Sharks vs Airlink Pumas
07/22/2024 02:51 AM
Sharks Go Down Fighting
The Airlink Pumas came to Durban off the back of a huge defeat and turned their fortunes around with a 31-21 Carling Currie Cup victory over the Hollywoodbets Sharks XV at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Friday evening.
A brave and committed second half fightback showed the character in the Hollywoodbets Sharks side, but ultimately they were undone by a rampant Pumas side who delivered a comprehensive first half performance that set them up for victory.
The Pumas had clearly come to Durban to fight and they were rewarded as early as the third minute of the game, contesting from the start and working their way ever closer to the Hollywoodbets Sharks tryline before forcing possession over the tryline for a converted try.
The visitors doubled their try tally five minutes later after Nick Hatton had a storming run but held up over the tryline and the Pumas had an explosive start, leading 14-0 after eight minutes.
The Pumas' power game in the tight exchanges paid off with a third try, the forwards successful in mauling the ball over the tryline, the conversion missing the mark but a 19-0 lead after 15 minutes was worrying for the home side.
The Hollywoodbets Sharks conceded the bonus point try just before half-time, the Pumas once again reverting to their tried, tested and successful driving maul, the forwards forming the attacking option well before forcing the ball over the line.
Trailing 24-0, the Durbanites knew they were under the pump and reacted well in the closing minutes, putting on a strong attack before conceding possession and while there were some encouraging signs before the half-time whistle, the frustrations were evident.
Sensing the need to strike back, replacement prop Dian Bleuler forced his way over following a patient, desperate attack with the Pumas under severe pressure and under numerous penalties. Bradley Davids converted and the Hollywoodbets Sharks were on the scoreboard 15 minutes into the second half.
But the Pumas struck back shortly afterwards, a pacey attack catching the home side and the seven-pointer cancelling out the home side's score moments earlier.
Nick Hatton, leading by example all match, was rewarded for his substantial efforts with a try in the 68th minute, confidence higher at this stage of the game when his team was enjoying some momentum and belief. Tian Meyer converted and the deficit was reduced to 31-14.
The energy had turned and the fight was there as Kerron van Vuuren closed out a committed effort from his team-mates, scoring the third try and chipping away at the Pumas' lead. Meyer added the extras and it was a 10 point game with seven minutes remaining.
There was a late charge in search of the bonus point double, but the Pumas were having none of it and kept the result in check as they threw everything into defence in the dying minutes.
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