South African Sides Shine in URC: Sharks Break Their Drought, Lions Roar at Ellis Park, and Stormers Stay Unbeaten

South African Teams Dominate the URC Weekend

It was a statement weekend for South African rugby in the United Rugby Championship (URC) as all three franchises in action delivered standout performances. The Sharks finally broke their winless streak at Kings Park, the Lions thrilled their Ellis Park crowd with a try-fest, and the Stormers remained the country’s flag bearers abroad with another impressive win in Italy.

Sharks End Their Winless Run at Kings Park

After three losses and a draw, the Sharks finally found their rhythm, beating Welsh side Scarlets 29–19 in Durban. Brothers Vincent and Emmanuel Tshituka both crossed the line in the first half, setting the tone for a passionate home performance that felt like a long-awaited release for fans who had been calling for a turnaround.

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi marked his return with a powerful bonus-point try, while flyhalf Jean Smith sealed the deal with a late penalty. Supporters flooded social media with relief and celebration, with one fan on X writing, “At last, the Sharks look like the Sharks again.”

The victory gives the Durban side something to build on before the competition’s month-long break, especially after weeks of criticism about their slow start to the season.

Lions Continue Their Roar with Back-to-Back Wins

Over in Johannesburg, the Lions produced a dominant 49–31 victory against previously unbeaten Ulster in a high-tempo clash that had Ellis Park buzzing. The home side scored seven tries, showcasing a blend of power and flair that’s fast becoming their trademark under coach Ivan van Rooyen.

Ruan Venter, Henco van Wyk, and Conrad van Vuuren were among the standout performers, while Chris Smith’s kicking kept the scoreboard ticking. Fans praised the team’s attacking intent, calling it “vintage Lions rugby” reminiscent of their golden years in Super Rugby.

The win means the Lions head into the break with growing confidence ahead of a mouthwatering local derby against the Bulls at Loftus.

Stormers Stay Unbeaten After Hard-Fought Win in Treviso

Meanwhile, the Stormers continue to fly the South African flag abroad. John Dobson’s men fought back from a sluggish start to beat Benetton 31–16 in wet Treviso conditions, extending their unbeaten run to five matches.

Flyhalf Jurie Matthee delivered a career-best performance, scoring a try, three penalties, and three conversions for a 21-point haul. Replacement scrumhalf Cobus Reinach impressed on debut, adding experience and pace to close out the game.

The result cements the Stormers’ position near the top of the table and reinforces their status as the most consistent South African side in the competition.

A United Front Ahead of the Break

With the international window approaching, this round of URC action couldn’t have come at a better time for South African rugby. After early-season struggles, all three franchises appear to be finding form, balance, and belief.

As one fan put it online, “If this weekend is a sign of things to come, the northern clubs better watch out.”

The URC now pauses for a month, but South Africa’s teams have ensured they’ll return to action with momentum firmly on their side.

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{Source:SABC Sport }

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