Sharks Bounce Back With A Victory Over Cardiff Rugby

The Sharks rebounded from a significant loss in the Investec Champions Cup last weekend by defeating Cardiff Rugby 42-22 in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship at Cardiff Arms Park on Saturday night.
This performance, unlike the previous heavy defeat against Union Bordeaux-Bègles, showcased the verve expected from John Plumtree’s team.
The Durban-based side crossed the try line six times, leaving the New Zealand coach beaming with satisfaction, particularly after Yaw Penxe’s late score in the 77th minute. Vincent Tshituka and Bongi Mbonambi were exceptional for the South African side, although Cardiff Rugby briefly threatened to stage a comeback, closing the gap to 22-28 when Gabriel Hamer-Webb scored for the home side in the 57th minute.
However, two tries by Francois Venter in the 72nd minute and Penxe with three minutes remaining sealed the victory for the Sharks. Mbonambi, two-time World Cup winner, scored a brace for the Challenge Cup champions in the 13th and 41st minutes.
Another double World Cup winner, Makazole Mapimpi, crossed the line in the 32nd minute before playing a huge role in Francois Venter’s try. Mapimpi demonstrated his speed by outrunning his marker, breaking through the defense, and flicking the ball offload after being tackled.
Jaden Hendriske collected the loose pass, setting up an easy try for Venter.
Tshituka, a standout performer in the loose trio and captain for the day, played a crucial role in the final try. He recycled the ball from a Cardiff Rugby attack, releasing Julius who sliced through the defense effortlessly to score.
The Sharks achieved this victory without Siya Kolisi, who was rested due to the Springboks’ mandatory rest period.
Trevor Nyakane of Sharks during the Investec Champions Cup match between Bordeaux and Sharks at Stade Chaban-Delmas on January 19, 2025 in Bordeaux, France. (Photo by Loic Cousin/Icon Sport) || 249882_0039 Attitude Sport UBB bordeaux bégles Union-Bordeau-Begles Union Bordeau Begles bordeaux-begles – Photo by Icon Sport