Jordan Hendrikse kicked a remarkable 60-metre penalty in added time, securing a thrilling 16-14 victory for the Sharks over the Lions in the Currie Cup final at Johannesburg's Ellis Park on Saturday. Hendrikse credited his trophy-winning kick to extensive early morning practice.
The Sharks triumphed despite missing 10 first-choice players due to Springbok Rugby Championship call-ups, including key figures like Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth. The win follows their success in the Challenge Cup final against Gloucester in May.
After a scoreless first half, the match ignited when Sharks winger Ethan Hooker scored a try, converted by Siya Masuku, in the 52nd minute. The Lions quickly responded, with scrum-half Nico Steyn scoring from a quick tap penalty and fly-half Sanele Nohamba converting.
The Sharks regained the lead with penalties from Masuku and Hendrikse. However, a yellow card for Lions replacement prop Juan Schoeman allowed them to regroup, resulting in a try by Siba Qoma, which Nohamba converted for a 14-13 lead.
In a dramatic finale, the Lions chose to play instead of kicking into touch, leading to a Sharks penalty and Hendrikse’s decisive kick.
The Currie Cup is South Africa's premier domestic rugby union competition, established in 1892, making it one of the oldest rugby tournaments in the world. The Sharks have won the championship a total of seven times. Their victories came in the years 1990, 1995, 2000, 2001, 2008, 2010, and 2024.
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| RUGBY ASIA |
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