Fassi Scores Twice As Sharks Crush Clermont In Investec Champions Cup

The Sharks scored eight tries, with two coming from Springbok fullback Aphelele Fassi, as they cruised to a 50–12 victory over AS Clermont in their Investec Champions Cup clash at Kings Park Stadium on Saturday.

Playing without Siya Kolisi, the Sharks were far too strong for the French outfit. Fassi delivered a standout performance, scoring twice and leaving the field to loud applause from the home supporters.

The hosts made a flying start when Fassi crossed for a try in the opening minute of the match. Clermont’s problems worsened soon after when Yerim Fall was shown a 20-minute red card for illegally bringing down Yaw Penxe in the air. The incident was reviewed by the bunker and deemed dangerous, although the sanction remained a 20-minute red card, allowing Fall to return later.

Despite being reduced to 14 men, Clermont managed to get on the scoreboard when Joris Jurand won an aerial contest from a cross-kick, beating Phikolomzi Sobahle to score the visitors’ first try.

The Sharks responded through Jaden Hendrikse, who finished off a short-side move after a well-timed offload. Brother Jordan Hendrikse added the conversion to give the home side a 15–5 lead after 17 minutes.

Clermont were handed a second try when Jordan Hendrikse’s midfield pass was intercepted by Kylan Hamdaoui, who ran in to close the gap to just two points. On the stroke of half-time, Sharks lock Jason Jenkins nearly extended the lead but knocked the ball forward on the try line.

Clermont showed determination despite their earlier red card, putting pressure on the Sharks’ defence. However, indiscipline continued to hurt the hosts when Matheo Frisach was sin-binned.

The Sharks asserted their dominance in the second half, with tries from Vincent Koch and Phikolomzi Sobahle extending their advantage. Fassi later added his second try — the Sharks’ fifth — as the home side began to pull clear.

Manu Tshituka made a strong break through the midfield before being halted just short of the line, but Siya Masuka was on hand to finish the move. Late tries from Phepsi Buthelezi and Jurenzo Julius completed the rout.

Despite early resistance from Clermont, the Sharks were comprehensive winners and now await other results to determine whether they progress to the knockout stages of the competition.