The Sharks’ EPCR Problem Cup title defence ended on the first hurdle with a round-of-16 defeat to Lyon at Matmut Stadium.
Sharks coach John Plumtree rested his first-choice gamers for this encounter, with Springbok centre Andre Esterhuizen and winger Yaw Penxe, who shifted to fullback, the one survivors from the beginning XV that misplaced to Leinster’s second-stringers in Durban final weekend.
So it got here as little shock when the guests went down 34-21 on Sunday.
The Sharks made an important begin to the sport, when hooker Fez Mbatha scored from a lineout driving maul.
What a unit 💪@SharksRugby chew again in opposition to Lyon O.U. 🦈
Observe the dwell weblog right here 👇
— EPCR Problem Cup (@ChallengeCup_) April 6, 2025
However the hosts hit again with three tries – fullback Alexandre Tchaptchet evading two tackles to attain in the suitable nook, lock Theo William going over beneath the posts after a storming run, and hooker Yanis Charcosset reaching out to put the ball on the whitewash.
Lyon, captained by Springbok free ahead Arno Botha, struck once more simply earlier than the break when centre Josiah Maraku dotted down after a slick set-piece transfer to make it 27-7.
The Sharks confirmed some battle after the break however continued to make expensive dealing with errors and concede possession on the breakdown.
Lyon prolonged their lead within the 68th minute when alternative scrumhalf Charlie Cassang’s break down the blind aspect created a attempt for proper wing Vincent Rattez.
The Sharks then produced their finest passage of play, sparked by substitute centre Jurenzo Julius, which noticed lock Corne Rahl barge over from shut vary, and flank Tino Mavesere’s last-minute attempt added some extra respectability to the rating.
Lyon will meet the Ospreys within the Problem Cup quarter-finals, whereas the Sharks get every week off earlier than tackling Edinburgh and Ulster on a two-match URC tour.
Picture: @SharksRugby/X
