Sharks boss John Plumtree demands response from players after defeat

Sharks coach John Plumtree has called on his players to “take a hard look in the mirror” after a 34-26 home defeat to Ulster left the Durban side winless after four United Rugby Championship matches.

Despite fielding 13 Springboks, including captain Siya Kolisi, the Sharks were outplayed and trailed 20-5 at halftime. Discipline again proved costly, with Vincent Koch shown a yellow card and Makazole Mapimpi sent off in the second half, ending hopes of a comeback.

“Just disappointing,” Plumtree said. “We expected so much more. We had chances to build pressure, but we didn’t turn up physically. Ulster were really good and clinical.”

The loss means the Sharks have now suffered three defeats and a draw to start the season. Plumtree admitted both players and staff must take responsibility.

“We’ve got to be harder on ourselves — players, coaches, everyone,” he said. “We have the quality; now we need the response.”

The Sharks host Welsh side Scarlets next weekend before the competition pauses for the November internationals.