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The Sharks suffered a disappointing exit from the Currie Cup semi-finals, losing 26-20 to the defending champions the Pumas at Kings Park.
The Pumas, who secured four tries compared to the Sharks' two, will now face the Cheetahs in the final next weekend, aiming for consecutive titles.
Throughout the contest, Jimmy Stonehouse's men displayed courage, passion, and intensity, fiercely battling for every inch.
Despite the Sharks' relentless attack in the Pumas' 22m area, consisting of 25 phases, the Pumas' defense remained impenetrable.
The Sharks' hopes were further dashed when center Alwayno Visagie received a straight red card in the 65th minute.
Coach Joey Mongalo and his team, who enjoyed a seven-match winning streak during the season, experienced a bitterly disappointing end.
The Pumas, on the other hand, find themselves on the brink of another remarkable victory in South African rugby's premier provincial competition.
The Pumas took an early 12-0 lead, stunning the Durban crowd, but the Sharks gradually gained momentum in the forward battle and set-pieces.
Despite the Sharks' efforts, the Pumas maintained their advantage and secured a 26-20 win, with the Sharks a man short in the final 15 minutes.
