Sharks edge Bordeaux in Champions Cup clash

The Sharks remained unbeaten in the early stages of the Champions Cup after edging Bordeaux Begles in their second game at the Chaban-Delmas Stadium in France on Friday night.

Having defeated Harlequins in their opening match last week, the Durbanites built on their fine form by securing a 19-16 victory in a hard-fought clash.

The hosts took early control, with flanker Renato Giammarioli opening their account within the first 10 minutes, but Sharks flyhalf Curwin Bosch managed to keep them in the game with his kicking boot.

While Bosch knocked over a drop goal and two penalties, however, Jules Gimbert secured another six points from penalties for Bordeaux to give the home side a 13-9 lead at the break.

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Retaining their composure, the Sharks came out firing in the second half and a try from right wing Werner Kok gave them the lead for the first time shortly after the restart.

Bosch added another penalty midway through the second half, and though Zack Holmes bagged another three points for Bordeaux, the visitors had done enough to earn the win.

Scores

Sharks (19) – Try: Werner Kok. Conversion: Curwin Bosch. Penalties: Bosch (3). Drop goal: Bosch

Bordeaux Beagles (16) – Try: Renato Giammarioli. Conversion: Jules Gimbert. Penalties: Gimbert (2), Zack Holmes