Sharks Win Arm-Wrestle in Kimberley:
Round 8 of the Carling Currie Cup saw the Cell C Sharks defeating the Windhoek Draught Griquas 13-7 in a tough, uncompromising derby in Kimberley on Wednesday evening.
The clash in the world’s oldest provincial rugby competition produced just one try as the teams hammered away at one another throughout and while Griquas enjoyed territorial and possession advantage, they were unable to breach the resolute Cell C Sharks defence throughout.
The Cell C Sharks’ scrum dominance in all competitions was evident early on and they took great reward early on off a scrum penalty that was kicked down field to touch and then accuracy and momentum in the maul saw Fez Mbatha driving over for the opening try, with Tito Bonilla converting from the touchline.
A rare foray into the Cell C Sharks’ half got the home side within striking distance and having earned a penalty, had no hesitation in opting for the three points on the quarter hour.
Five minutes later, following a few promising incursions into the danger zone, another scrum penalty for the Cell C Sharks from right in front restored the seven point lead.
The final 10 minutes of the half saw Griquas enjoying territorial advantage as they hammered away at the tryline, with numerous penalties conceded on defence eventually leading to a team warning and subsequent yellow card.
With time up on the clock and unable to break through the brave 14 man Cell C Sharks’ defence, Griquas finally opted for points and kicked a late penalty to cut the difference to four points as the teams went into the half-time break with the Durbanites leading 10-6.
Neither side was able to add to their scores in a third quarter punctuated by frustration, the game losing rhythm although Griquas enjoyed the lions’ share of possession and territory but unable to turn their advantage into points.
Griquas scrapped at every opportunity, as is expected of them at their home ground, but their finishing let them down
While Griquas committed the cardinal errors of not scoring when opportunities were created, and there was a surfeit in the second half, the Cell C Sharks who had precious little of the ball finally showed the value of good captaincy when Bonilla scored the first points in 55 minutes.
With just a handful of moments left to play, James Venter had no hesitation in pointing to the posts and taking the three points to push the lead to seven points which forced Griquas to chase a try to draw the game, but failing in the final instance.
Man of the Match Tito Bonilla said afterwards, “It was a really tough match, we knew it would be a game of inches and we’re really happy to get a win here. We needed a win today, so it’s really good to have that winning feeling again.”
His captain James Venter added, “The boys fought hard for a win, it was a tough trip here in Kimberley, but coming off two losses, it was good to get a win. Our focus was on game management, control and our structures, well done to our half backs Cameron and Tito for controlling the game well.”
The post Sharks Win Arm-Wrestle in Kimberley appeared first on The Sharks.
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Quick Durban KwaZulu-Natal Fact: From the beautiful buildings of yesteryear, to Durban’s brand new architectural icon – Moses Mabhdia Stadium. Built for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup, the stadium was designed by German firm, GMP Architekten. Named for the former secretary general of the South African Communist Party, the stadium boasts state-of-the-art technology which maximizes light, protects spectators from wind, and still allows a free view outwards. Situated on a raised platform to enhance its visibility, the stadium can be seen from as far away as Ushaka Marine World. The iconic arch houses a skycar which gives unparalleled views of the city and coastline.
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