Sharks edge Bordeaux to claim second victory in Champions Cup

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.