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Sharks edge Bordeaux to claim second victory in Champions Cup
By PA
Werner Kok scored a crucial try as Sharks continued their winning start to life in the Heineken Champions Cup with a 19-16 victory over Bordeaux.
The South African franchise were marginal underdogs heading into the clash, despite debuting with a strong win against Harlequins, but once again showed they mean business as they successfully overturned a half-time deficit.
The French side were 13-9 ahead at the interval, with Renato Giammarioli going over for try after just seven minutes.
Jules Gimbert converted and added a couple of penalties as the hosts cashed in on some errors, but nine points off the boot of Curwi Bosch, including a drop goal, kept things tight.
The game broke open at the start of the second period, Kok smartly gathering Boeta Chamberlain’s offload to touch down from close-range and give his side a lead they never surrendered.
Bosch put over the extras and slotted two of his next three penalties, with Zack Holmes replying for Bordeaux.
There was a lengthy delay after Madosh Tambwe suffered an unintentional collision with Kok late on, but when play resumed the Sharks were able to settle in and protect their advantage.
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Latest Comments
Aussie are certainly overdue to win the championship but I can't see it happening just yet. They are beginning to climb up again but still have a way to go. I think this season the Chiefs will take it out ahead of the Blues & Crusaders.
Go to commentsJust to clarify, none of the coaches I mentioned will be considered and I don't believe they should be with Les Kiss, Stephen Larkham and Michael Cheika as Australian coaches who could do a good job if Joe quits aftet the Lions series. Les Kiss is the reported front runner according to Christy Doran and Jamie Pandaram. South African coaches generally aren't considered for the role of Wallabies coach largely due to perceptions about their style. The coaches I mentioned though contradict the perception of unimaginative rugby.
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