Match Centre: Investec Champions Cup: Sharks 39-21 Exeter Chiefs
Makazole Mapimpi was one of the try scorer for Sharks
©Steve Haag
Sharks 39-21 Exeter Chiefs, Durban
The Sharks delivered a dominant performance to defeat Exeter Chiefs 39-21 in the opening Investec Champions Cup Pool One match in Durban.
Despite a spirited effort from the visitors, the South African side displayed attacking precision and defensive resilience to secure a comprehensive victory.
Exeter Chiefs started strongly, with hooker Dan Frost scoring the opening try while the Chiefs were a man down following Greg Fisilau's yellow card. However, the Sharks quickly turned the tide, responding with four unanswered tries to seize control of the match.
The Sharks showcased their attacking prowess through tries from Phepsi Buthelezi, Makazole Mapimpi, and Grant Williams, each finishing off well-orchestrated moves.
South Africa’s World Cup-winning captain Siya Kolisi added to the tally, crossing the line to secure the bonus point for the hosts. By halftime, the Sharks led 26-14.
Kolisi extended the lead further early in the second half, capitalizing on a loose Exeter line-out to score his second try of the game, putting the Sharks 22 points ahead.
England winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso reignited Exeter’s hopes, collecting a crossfield kick to score their third try. However, Exeter missed a crucial opportunity to earn a bonus point when Ben Hammersley failed to secure a high kick during a period when the Sharks were reduced to 12 men due to three quick sin-bins.
Exeter Chiefs, winners of the Champions Cup in 2020, have endured a challenging start to their season, with this loss adding to their struggles after seven consecutive Premiership defeats.
They now turn their focus to a crucial Pool One clash against reigning champions Toulouse on December 15 at Sandy Park.
Team line up:
Sharks: Fassi; Keyter, Hooker, Esterhuizen, Mapimpi; Jordan Hendrikse, Williams; Nche, Mbonambi, Nyakane, Etzebeth (capt), Van Heerden, J Venter, Tshituka, Kolisi.
Reserves: Richardson, Mchunu, Jacobs, Jenkins, Buthelezi, Jaden Hendrikse, Masuku, F Venter.
Exeter: Hodge; Feyi-Waboso, Hammersley, Tua, Wyatt; Haydon-Wood, Townsend; Sio, Frost, Street, Molina, Capstick, E Roots, Vermeulen (capt), Fisilau.
Reserves: Innard, Goodrick-Clarke, J Roots, Tshiunza, Vintcent, Becconsall, Skinner, Rigg.
