Sharks Top URC Log After Beating Champions Leinster

The Sharks sit proudly atop the United Rugby Championship log after beating defending champions Leinster 26-20 in Durban on Saturday.

The Durban side made it two wins from two home games, banking a perfect 10 points from the opening fortnight. It was a statement victory over the side that lifted the title last season and announced the Sharks as early frontrunners.

The Lions are keeping pace, climbing to third on nine points after a bonus-point 35-19 win over the Ospreys in Johannesburg. There was less joy elsewhere for South African sides: the Stormers were undone by a misfiring lineout in windy Scottish conditions, losing 17-13 to Edinburgh on Friday night, while the Bulls went down 26-22 to Munster in Limerick.

All four South African franchises now turn their attention to a derby round next Saturday, with local pride — and valuable log points — on the line.

The Sharks will look to extend their perfect start and tighten their grip on first place, while the Stormers and Bulls will be desperate to bounce back in front of home crowds after a frustrating weekend on tour.