Makazole Mapimpi's last-gasp try stuns Edinburgh in URC thriller

Makazole Mapimpi's last-gasp try stuns Edinburgh in URC thriller

The Sharks snatched a dramatic 18–17 victory over Edinburgh in the United Rugby Championship, thanks to a final-play try from Makazole Mapimpi in a rollercoaster encounter.

The South African side, who fielded 12 internationals in their starting line-up, were far from their best for large periods, but showcased trademark resilience when it mattered most.

The match opened with an early statement from the Sharks as Jordan Hendrikse landed a long-range penalty after just four minutes.

Edinburgh responded strongly, with James Lang diving over in the corner on 12 minutes, though the conversion went wide. Jamie Ritchie extended the hosts' lead after linking up cleverly with Matt Currie, making it 10-3 midway through the first half.

Hendrikse kept the Sharks in touch with another penalty just before the break, leaving the score at 10-6 at half-time.

After the interval, Aphelele Fassi crossed for a try, converted by Hendrikse, to give the visitors a 13-10 lead.

Edinburgh surged back ahead when Ewan Ashman powered over following a tense period that saw players sin-binned on both sides. Ross Thompson added the extras to push Edinburgh 17-13 in front.

However, in the dying moments, with the clock in the red, Mapimpi capped a sweeping move by dotting down in the corner.

No conversion was noted, but it proved irrelevant as the Sharks edged the contest by a single point.

The visitors erupted in celebration, knowing the result likely cements their place in the URC's top four.

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