DURBAN, South Africa (AFP) — France fly-half Frederic Michalak scored a vital try for KwaZulu-Natal Sharks in a 29-14 Currie Cup semi-final triumph over Golden Lions Saturday.
Michalak struck 20 minutes into the first half at Absa Stadium in the Indian Ocean city to restore the 13-point advantage of the home team just 60 seconds after the visitors had clawed back into contention.
Slick handling created space near the touchline and Springbok wing Odwa Ndungane passed to superbly positioned Michalak, who dived over for the try. Scrum-half Ruan Pienaar converted to give the Sharks a 20-7 advantage.
The Lions never recovered from the blow and trailed by 22 points before Bok centre Jaque Fourie dotted down after the final move of the match to give the scoreline a flattering appearance.
Michalak, who turns 26 next Friday, quits the Sharks after the final against the Blue Bulls here on October 25. He will return to former club Toulouse on a three-year contract.
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5jEmrJHyECKNAsKj6FxU9KXL5NrzQ