A heavily loaded Sharks side struggled to find their rhythm as they edged out defending champions Glasgow Warriors 28-24 in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship at Kings Park Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Sharks try scorers were Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and Aphelele Fassi, both coming in the first half.

Franco Smith’s Warriors fought back, with Gregor Horne diving over twice for the visitors in the first half, leaving the score at 15-12 in favor of the home side at halftime.

However, the Sharks remained disciplined, preventing Glasgow from getting close to the goal or earning penalties until the late twist.

The Sharks fielded a star-studded lineup, including the return of Kolisi to the starting lineup after his stint with Racing 92 in France. Kolisi had recently helped the Boks win the Rugby Championship and was granted a rest along with several other Springbok stalwarts.

Despite their wealth of experience, the Sharks’ performance lacked finesse. Both sides struggled to create scoring opportunities in the second half, with Jordan Hendriske’s two penalties adding to the Sharks’ lead until the 66th minute.

While tries were scarce, substitute scrumhalf Williams finished off a brilliant setup from winger Makazole Mapimpi in the 71st minute to extend the Sharks’ advantage.

However, Warriors made a late push, with Rory Darge and Johnny Matthews scoring tries, but it was not enough as the Sharks held on for the victory.

This was a stern test for the Sharks, but a good warm-up as they prepare to face Munster from Ireland at Kings Park Stadium next Saturday.