Sharks’ Super 14 dreams dealt a severe blow

Bulls continue their winning streak

The Sharks' Super 14 semifinal chances were severely dented after they lost 18-10 to the Crusaders in Christchurch New Zealand today. The loss has pushed them down to fourth on the log but three teams have a chance to overtake them if they win their fixtures this weekend.

After suffering their second defeat in a row last weekend against the Waratahs, the Sharks had a poor start and struggled to keep possession. The Crusaders took advantage and scored an early try. Television replays were unclear but Australian referee Stuart Dickenson seemed to have a better view and awarded the try to give the Crusaders a 10-nil lead after 17 minutes.

The Sharks, however, played better in the last 60 minutes and one of their star performers of this year's campaign, Ryan Kankowski, scored a brilliant individual try - handing off a few defenders which included the home team and All Black captain Richie Mccaw.

The teams then traded penalties for a half time score of 13-10 to the Crusaders.

The Sharks enjoyed possession in the second half but couldn't pierce the defence. The Crusaders were once again awarded a debatable try to seal a victory and qualify for the semifinals.

In the other match of the day, the Auckland Bues beat the Queensland Reds by 35-22. The Blues scored four tries for a bonus point and are in sixth position on the log. Both the Blues and the Stormers are on 31 points, but the Blues have a better points difference while the Stormers have one game in hand.