Hollywoodbets Sharks coach John Plumtree described their chaotic victory over Zebre Parma as a “game to forget,” citing an uninspiring performance from the Durban side in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship at Kings Park Stadium on Saturday.

Siya Kolisi’s two tries, along with scores from Jurenzo Julius, Ethan Hooker, and Vincent Koch, salvaged a 35-34 win for the Sharks against a determined Zebre team.

Despite boasting a Springbok-laden lineup and establishing a 14-point lead with two early tries, the Sharks struggled to maintain control, allowing Zebre to take the lead twice.

The victory propelled the Sharks to third place in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship standings, behind Leinster and defending champions Glasgow Warriors.

“It was easy for us, but we made it easy for them,” reflected Plumtree after the game. 

“Talking about being easy, but we made it easy for them too. So, with that, we made it harder for ourselves. I thought the team was up for it. Emotionally, I don’t think we really had good week – I’m not pointing fingers towards us mentally not preparing in the right space.  

“I just think our skills were terrible, basic, catch pass, decision-making, it was bad… 

“It wasn’t good enough for what we can deliver as a team, but we also saw as coaches and management what we could have done better too.  

“There will be a little bit of deep diving into it and at the end of the day, it is our story, we are in the competition, and we got five points, and we have a good side to play next weekend (Leinster) where we know we can’t afford to play like that.”  

Plumtree, whose side salvaged their season by winning the EPCR Challenge Cup last term despite a poor URC performance, praised Kolisi’s second consecutive two-try performance and his Man of the Match award.

Kolisi, who rejoined the Sharks at the start of the season, appears to be thriving in the number eight position, despite it not being his usual role.

“It was important that he went 80 minutes and I’m sure he was keeping everyone calm,” said Plumtree. 

“Again, I thought the impact from the bench did well to get us to cross the line. It was like the Lions’ game here (that was played two weeks ago, and we won), so good for them.”

Pic courtesy of Steve Haag Sports