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The Cell C Sharks put in another defiant defensive performance on Friday to claim a 29-23 victory over the Blues in Auckland and extend their lead at the top of the Super Rugby standings.
Tries from skipper Bismark Du Plessis and scrumhalf Cobus Reinach and 16 points from the boot of Francois Steyn kept the visitors ahead on the scoreboard but it was their resolute defence that won them a 10th straight victory over the Blues.
The Blues, who had been unbeaten at home this season, were unable to break through in a tense last 10 minutes.
After their equally impressive victory over the Crusaders with 14 men last week, the Sharks will return to Durban clear leaders in the South African conference and already almost certain of a place in the playoffs.
