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5h ago

Ulster Sink Star-Studded Sharks 34–26 in Durban as Dreyer Suffers Knee Blow

The result extends a four-game winless start for a side still searching for cohesion.

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DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA - DECEMBER 21: Ruan Dreyer of the Hollywoodbets Sharks with Ox Nche of the Hollywoodbets Sharks during the United Rugby Championship match between Hollywoodbets Sharks and Vodacom Bulls at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium on December 21, 2024 in Durban, South Africa. (Photo by Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images)
The Lions recorded their first win of this season's URC this weekend. Picture: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images
Springbok wings Makazole Mapimpi and Edwill van der Merwe in action for the Sharks during their loss to Ulster. Picture:

Overview

  • Ulster left Durban with a bonus-point victory and five log points, which head coach Richie Murphy called a statement win.
  • The Sharks named 13 Springboks in their starting XV yet struggled with discipline and cohesion in key moments.
  • Makazole Mapimpi’s yellow card was upgraded to a 20-minute red, and Vincent Koch was also sin-binned for a dangerous tackle.
  • Head coach John Plumtree said there would be no excuses after the home defeat and urged a mindset shift, with the Sharks 14th on the table.
  • Tighthead prop Ruan Dreyer sustained a serious knee injury that could sideline him for an extended period, deepening front-row concerns before Scarlets visit Kings Park.