Trafford Sport
Rugby - Sale Sharks 19 Scarlets 14
10:03am Monday 6th February 2012
SHARKS got back on track in Saturday’s snow and beat the in-form Scarlets, to set themselves up for the return of the Aviva Premiership on Friday against Worcester Warriors.
The LV Cup fixture, affected by two date changes, was rescued by four days of hot air blown under a tent-like cover, leaving a perfect, soft surface by Saturday lunchtime. The snow and sleet then proceeded to make life difficult, not only for the players, but for the hardy supporters.
Flanker Hendre Fourie, on his home debut, scored the opening try after 9 minutes, finishing off a classic rolling maul. Macleod converted, before Scarlets forged a half time lead through Newton (2 penalties) and a try from Edwards.
Sharks replied with regular force, as the snow started to freeze. They constantly sent their visitors back into their own 22, and Macleod capitalised with four penalties inside a 23-minute spell as Scarlets fell foul of referee Tim Wigglesworth, a tenth minute substitute for starting official Martin Fox. The Welsh outfit could only reply with a Jones penalty.
This was a satisfactory performance in difficult conditions, with a collective effort which deserved to be watched by a larger crowd than the 3012 in attendance. Outstanding for the Sharks, alongside Messenger Man of the Match Fourie were Macleod, Lewaravu and Ostrikov.
"That was what we needed - a reaction after last week. The players all fronted up and they needed to, as Scarlets are a good side," said Sale head coach Tony Hanks.
"We showed we had learned in terms of managing the game. Last week maybe some people questioned our attitude and you take that to heart really, and it was up to us to go out there and produce a performance we could be proud of and we did that."
The next test will be on Friday (8pm) at home to Worcester Warriors. Tickets 08444 994 994.