The Emirates Lions delivered a spectacular performance, dismantling the Hollywoodbets Sharks at Emirates Airline Park Stadium in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship on Saturday.

The Lions scored three tries in each half, comprehensively outplaying a Sharks team that lacked ideas and execution.

The home side opened the scoring with PJ Botha’s try in the sixth minute.

Francke Horn, who made his Springboks debut last season, added a second try for the Lions in the 14th minute. Gianni Lombard successfully converted both tries.

Lombard then missed a penalty kick, leaving the score at 14-0 in favor of the Lions.

The Sharks’ task became more difficult when prop Ntuthuko Mchunu was shown a yellow card in the 33rd minute.

The Lions capitalized on their advantage, scoring a third try through Edwill van der Merwe before halftime, securing a 19-0 lead and a bonus point against the struggling Sharks.

Early in the second half, Richards Kriel scored the Lions’ fourth try, exploiting space on the outside.

The Sharks attempted to build attacking phases, but the Lions’ defense remained resolute.

In an effort to stem the tide, the Sharks brought on Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, Vincent Koch, and Grant Williams. However, the Lions continued to dominate, with Jarod Cairns scoring their fifth try in the 60th minute, extending the lead to 31-0.

The game appeared beyond the Sharks, who would have needed an extraordinary comeback to salvage a result.

The Lions added a sixth try, showcasing excellent passing and support play, with Lombard diving over.

Finally, the Sharks scored their first try through Ethan Hooker, who received a superb offload from Kolisi.

As the final whistle approached, Grant Williams made a dazzling run, breaking through the Lions’ defense, and Kolisi finished off an easy try. However, it was too little, too late for the visitors, who lost 38-14.

Pic courtesy of Steve Haag Sports