The Sharks beat the Auckland Blues 23-10 on Saturday to keep alive slim hopes of a Super 14 semi-final place.

Sharks halfback Ruan Pienaar scored a try, two penalties and a drop goal. The home team added a second-half penalty from No.10 Andy Goode and two from replacement Rory Kockott.

Auckland broke through first when five-eighth Stephen Brett created a try for No.8 Peter Saili in the 26th minute. But Pienaar went over from a five-metre scrum 30 seconds before halftime to put the Sharks ahead for the first time.

The Sharks then deprived the listless Blues of possession in the second half to grind out a fifth successive win after starting the season with five straight losses.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP