We look back on a weekend that saw the Lions beat the Sharks in Durban and some crackerjack matches played out in the Gallagher Premiership.
URC R9: Sharks implode in Durban
The Lions came back from 3-18 down at halftime to inflict a 20-18 defeat on the Hollywoodbets Sharks at Kings Park on Saturday. After dominating the opening 40 minutes, a series of poor decisions and lack of execution from the hosts allowed the determined visitors a way back into the game, with former Sharks product and current Lions flyhalf Sanele Nohamba pivotal to what was the franchise’s first win in Durban since 2017.
Despite the tireless efforts of Eben Etzebeth, the men in black and white continued to falter this season. The result leaves John Plumtree’s men floundering at the very bottom of the URC standings on nine points after winning just one of their nine matches so far. On the other hand, the Lions continue their impressive form and occupy 11th with 23 points – three places and two points off the quarterfinal spots.
Cool under pressure 🥶
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) January 8, 2024
Sanele Nohamba on slotting that kick from the touchline to win it for the Emirates Lions against his former side.
🫣 "I felt it was good, I just didn't want to look!" pic.twitter.com/ntswKZvXev
Gallagher Prem R11: Leaders Saints overturn a 26-point deficit to beat Chiefs
In one of the more remarkable comebacks you’re likely to see, Northampton Saints beat Exeter Chiefs 42-36 at Sandy Park to hang on to top spot. The hosts had raced into a 26-0 lead after scoring four quickfire tries inside the opening 23 minutes, but the away side responded with two of their own before the break to haul themselves back into it. The second half was a topsy-turvy affair with the lead changing hands a number of times before Saints scored with the clock in the red to seal a famous win.
In another Premiership cracker, Leicester Tigers held off Saracens 19-10 at Welford Road to maintain their upward trajectory and ensure Sarries lose more ground in the hunt for the p-playoffs. Handre Pollard and Jasper Wiese were instrumental again as Tigers continue to put their slow start to the season behind them.
Elsewhere, second-placed Harlequins won 24-3 at Kingston Park against Falcons, Bristol shocked Sale 22-14 at the AJ Bell and Bath (third) earned a hard-fought 17-10 win over Gloucester at The Rec.
EXTRAORDINARY 🤯
— Premiership Rugby (@premrugby) January 6, 2024
Rory Hutchinson scores with the final play to win an incredible game for @SaintsRugby 😇#GallagherPrem | #EXEvNOR pic.twitter.com/c4oqHIDKzi
