Sharks edge Stormers in dramatic URC clash: John Plumtree credits team culture for win

Sharks coach John Plumtree praised the environment at the franchise following Saturday’s dramatic United Rugby Championship win over the Stormers at Kings Park in Durban.

Having let 21-8 with a minute left to play, the Stormers looked like they won the encounter after two quick tries – the second with the clock in the red – to seal an unlikely come-from-behind win.

However, Stormers flyhalf Manie Libbok was judged to have knocked the ball in the lead up to the second try, and the Sharks walked away with the win.

Speaking after the game, Plumtree said the environment at the Sharks ensured that the bounce of the ball went their way.

“It wasn’t perfect. The Stormers will be disappointed. They had chances then didn’t finish. But sometimes, when you create the right environment, luck follows and you escape with a win,” New Zealander Plumtree said after the encounter.

“There has been a lot of work behind the scenes to create the environment we want. The team is connected, win or lose. We have good talent and a good culture. That’s the foundation for success and we’re moving in the right directions,” the Sharks coach said.

For Stormers coach John Dobson, Saturday’s loss was due to numerous scoring opportunities that were not taken.

“When Manie went over, it felt like we’d stolen the win. Then to lose it, it’s hard to describe the emotion. We created so many opportunities but were undone by our own errors. Still, there’s a lot to be hopeful about for this team,” said Dobson.

The Sharks climbed up to sixth on the URC table after the win, while the Stormers dropped to 13th with their fourth loss in six games so far this season.

The teams have a break next week, but return to action the following weekend when they are involved in South African derbies. The Stormers host the Lions in the Mother City, while the Bulls travel to Durban to take on a Sharks outfit high on confidence.

IOL Sport