The 2023/24 Challenge Cup final was a captivating and physically demanding match, resulting in a victorious win for The Sharks over Gloucester Rugby with a score of 36-22. The game, attended by a crowd of 34,761 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, marked Gloucester Rugby’s third defeat in a European final out of five visits to the showpiece game.
Despite their earlier success in lifting the Premiership Rugby Cup, Gloucester Rugby had suffered a challenging period with a club-record of nine successive Gallagher Premiership losses. Coach George Skivington opted to prioritise Europe over the league, assembling a formidable squad for the final. However, The Sharks, fuelled by a dominant Springbok-inspired pack, proved to be the superior team throughout the game.
The tight five of the South African side showcased exceptional strength and control in the set-piece, reminiscent of their performance in the 2019 Rugby World Cup final. The Sharks’ front-row combination of Ox Nche, Bongi Mbonambi, and Vincent Koch, alongside the leadership of captain Eben Etzebeth and Gerbrandt Grobler, laid the groundwork for their historic victory.
Despite a brave effort from Gloucester Rugby, which included a strong start and a valiant finish, late tries by Santiago Socino and Freddie Clarke were not enough to overcome The Sharks’ dominance. This win marked the first instance of a South African team securing victory in a ‘European’ competition.
Although Gloucester Rugby displayed moments of resilience, The Sharks ultimately maintained control over the game. Even after Aphelele Fassi’s sin-bin early in the match, The Sharks regrouped and surged ahead.
While Gloucester Rugby demonstrated determination and managed to score points, The Sharks’ offensive tactics, characterised by fluid attacks and pinpoint precision, proved insurmountable. The match concluded with The Sharks emerging as deserving winners.
Notable players from both teams included Jonny May, Chris Harris, and Zach Mercer for Gloucester Rugby, and Aphelele Fassi, Siya Masuku, and Makazole Mapimpi for The Sharks.
In summary, The Sharks’ dominant performance in the Challenge Cup final exemplified their strength and resolve, culminating in a historic victory. The match showcased an exhilarating display of rugby talent, keeping fans and spectators captivated throughout.