Lions keep URC play-off hopes alive with big win over misfiring Sharks

Play was held up at half-time due to a typical highveld thunderstorm with the home side leading 19-10, but the Lions were able to maintain their composure and concentration when the second half finally got under way to score three more tries and secure a valuable bonus point.

The big win keeps Ivan Rooyen's side firmly in the hunt for a top-eight finish and a URC play-off spot, while the Sharks' miserable URC campaign continues as they suffer a fifth straight defeat.

The visitors were still in the contest at half-time but a 51st-minute yellow card to captain Bongi Mbonami was certainly not what the doctor ordered, allowing the Lions went on to wrap up the result in the final 20 minutes in emphatic fashion.

The Lions ran in tries from scrumhalf Sanele Nohamba, flanker JC Pretorius, fullback Quan Horn, prop Conraad van Vuuren, Erich Cronje and Hanru Sirgel, with flyhalf Jordan Hendrikse kicking five conversions to maintain their play-off hopes.

Wing Eduan Keyter touched down for the Sharks, while Siya Masuku kicked a penalty and conversion, but they have now lost 10 league games this season and remain bottom of the table.

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