Sharks power past gritty Scarlets to claim first URC win

THE Sharks were not at their most fluid in attack but relied on forward firepower to subdue the Scarlets 29-19 for their first win of the United Rugby Championship season at Kings Park yesterday.

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Sharks loose forward Siya Kolisi tries to catch a ball during their URC match against the Scarlets. by AFP

(AFP)

Skipper Eben Etzebeth led from the front as the Bok-stacked Sharks dominated the early exchanges in the Durban sunshine, laying the platform for a hard-fought victory in an extremely physical encounter.

It was telling that all four of the home team’s tries came from their big men.

The first came in the fifth minute after a strong break and fend by flank Siya Kolisi. A pop over the top by lively Grant Williams found No 7 Vincent Tshituka, who dotted down in the far tight corner. Fly-half Jean Smith was unable to land the conversion.

Scrumhalf Williams was particularly lively, but the Sharks struggled to make further headway on the scoreboard despite dominating territory and possession. The visitors were able to nullify their power in the scrums and lineout mauls early on.