Sharks rue Murray Koster red card as Benetton claim late victory in URC clash

Replacement fly-half Jacob Umaga crossed with three minutes remaining and then nervelessly converted his own try in a dramatic finish in Durban.

Tries from Aphelele Fassi, Ox Nche and Werner Kok (2), with Siya Masuku converting two of them, had put Sharks 24-18 ahead before Koster was sent off in the 75th minute for a dangerous clear out on Tommaso Menoncello that resulted in head-to-head contact.

Menoncello and Gianmarco Lucchesi crossed for Benetton, with Leonardo Marin converting a try and landing a penalty and Umaga adding the extras on his try having also kicked a penalty.

Plumtree and his coaching staff may well rue the decision to go full-tilt for the URC fixture, with the Challenge Cup final against Gloester looming as the injury concerns quickly racked up. 

Vincent Koch limped off the pitch looking rather uncomfortable, shortly followed by lock Eben Etzebeth, who departed for an HIA and never returned. 

This after fellow Springbok Francois Venter withdrew from the starting XV before kick-off and was replaced by Murray Koster.

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