RORY Lamont marked his return from injury with two tries as Sharks drew 24-24 with tournament favourites Perpignan in the Challenge Vaquerin.

Sharks made a slow start in their first preseason game and were 24-5 down early in the second half.

But Lamont's double and a try from David Doherty saw them complete an impressive second half comeback.

Perpignan took the lead when a crossfield kick was misjudged by debutant Nick Royle and Perpignan took advantage and scored.

Shortly afterwards Sharks were back in the game when Eifion Roberts scored his first ever try for the club from close range.

Perpignan reclaimed their lead shortly after Eifion’s try to leave Sharks trailing 12-5 after 16 minutes.

The French side then scored again just before the break and things went from bad to worse when skipper Dean Schofield had to leave the field with a knee injury.

With Sharks trailing 19-5 at the break, it seemed things couldn't get much worse but, straight after the restart Perpignan attacked through the Sharks scrum and scored their fourth try.

But that blow only sparked Sale into action and Lamont, playing his first game since this year's Six Nations, gave them hope with a try shortly afterwards, which was converted by Luke McAlister.

Debutant Doherty, a sumjmer signing from Wasps, got in on the act, scoring for Sharks as they closed the gap to seven points at 17-24.

And they capped a remarkable comeback when Lamont grabbed his second try and McAlister kicked the pressure conversion.

But after that incredible fightback, Sharks were dealt a double blow, as replacement scrum half Chris Leck was yellow carded and Rory Lamont injured his shoulder.

Director of rugby Philippe Saint-Andre said: "It took us some time to get into the game but we had a lot of youngsters out on the field and they did really well.

"I was particularly pleased with Luke McAlister and Rory Lamont who were both outstanding for us."

Head coach Kingsley Jones added: "I am delighted with the performance. The players looked lean and mean and were extremely fit and well conditioned.

"I was particularly happy for Eifion Roberts who had an outstanding game for us.

"He destroyed his opposite number in the scrum and was charging down kicks and his mobility around the field was exceptional."