The Sharks made a winning start under new coach Kevin Putt when they defeated the Blues 20-13 in a disappointing Super 12 match at Durban's Absa Stadium on Saturday.

It was the Sharks first victory after five consecutive defeats - maybe the big reason why only 25 000 arrived to watch the game in overcast and windy conditions. The Sharks had a good start to the game and had the Blues backpedaling, but the second half failed miserably as a spectacle.

However, the Sharks played with much more purpose than on their overseas tour and they looked hunger for a first win. In the first half they played with confidence and the backs, with Stefan Terblanche (pictured) a constant menace to the Blues defenders, ran with vigour and weren't scared to try things and vary the attack.

However, it was flank Brad McLeod-Henderson who scored the first try of the match as early as the third minute. McLeod-Henderson received the ball just outside the Blues 22-m line and kicked the ball forward. He was impeded on his chase, but the ball bounced wicked for the Blues and favourably for the Sharks who accepted the five-pointer with glee. Herkie Kruger converted to give the home side a good start and a 7-0 lead.

Fullback Thinus Delport scored the next try after a brilliant break from scrumhalf Craig Davidson, who completely outfoxed the defenders before No 8 Shaun Sowerby and Terblanche were instrumental in a slick passing movement from the home side.

It all started behind a ruck and Davidson, Kruger, Keil, Terblanche and Sowerby handled before the winger received the ball again on the loop to finish it off. That try handed the Sharks a comfortable 20-10 lead at halftime.

After halftime the two teams served up pretty uninspiring fare and it seemed if the Sharks were content to just defend their lead. The Blues tried their utmost to cross the home try-line, but the Sharks defended resolutely to in the end deserve their victory.

Scorers:

Sharks - Tries: Brad McLeod-Henderson, Stefan Terblanche, Thinus Delport; Conversion: Herkie Kruger; Penalty: Herkie Kruger.

Blues - Try: Doug Howlett; Conversion: James Arlidge; Penalties: Arlidge (2).