The Durban franchise slumped to their fourth straight United Rugby Championship defeat when they narrowly lost 12-10 to a resurgent Benneton in Italy on Friday night. The Sharks defence has been decent but their attack has been riddled with basic errors. In fact, they have only scored 49 points across their four matches.

Discipline was also an issue on Friday, as Aphelele Fassi was shown a yellow card for a dangerous tackle and lock Hyron Andrews red card for a dangerous clear-out at the ruck.

"A lot of our basic skill sets let us down," added Plumtree, as per IOL.

"Losing the aerial battle alone was key because it allowed them to dominate territory. The yellow and red card did not help the situation.

"On a positive note, we had a couple of nice moments on the attack but didn't capitalise on the available opportunities. I was proud of the effort around our goal line defence and many young players stood up physically.

"This has been a disappointing tour and we have picked up some key injuries in the same positions, which have been tricky to navigate especially with eight of our Springboks unavailable."

Plumtree took over as head coach from Sean Everitt who was shown the door after being thumped by Cardiff in Durban last year, one of the lowest points of the Sharks team in recent memory.

"When I came in I knew there would be no overnight fix, but what I can promise our fans is that we will do everything we can to get things right and do this jersey proud again," continued the Kiwi, who coached the Sharks from 2008-2012

"I called for patience in the pre-season and it's a difficult period right now because no one likes losing. I know that our loyal fans will stick by us and we will make you proud once again."

Admittedly, the Sharks' depth has been tested, with the likes of Bongi Mbonambi, Le Roux Roets, Muller du Plessis, Nevaldo Fleurs, Francois Hougaard, Reniel Hugo, Vincent Koch, Vincent Tshituka, Curwin Bosch, Kerron van Vuuren all injured.

The Sharks will look to get their URC campaign back on track when they host Connacht from Ireland at Kings Park next week Saturday.

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