Massive Challenge Ahead

Today at 02:16 AM

Ahead of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship return leg clash against the Vodacom Bulls, Hollywoodbets Sharks prop Trevor Nyakane admits that he and his team-mates are in a healthy space leading into the big derby game in Pretoria on Saturday.

The Hollywoodbets Sharks have had an opportunity to rest up after a gruelling period that included both VURC commitments as well as top class competitive rugby in the Investec Champions Cup.

"We needed a bit of a break, the competition is quite long, and it was a well-deserved opportunity for the boys to get away, take their minds off the rugby a bit and then change focus and start getting back into the swing of things," the affable and mostly smiling prop explains.

"The guys are now in the right mindset and this week has been a normal training week and the guys are well-rested and in a good space right now."

But rest and preparation aside, he is under no illusions as to the challenge that lies ahead, particularly the upfront battle.

"The Bulls are a very strong outfit when it comes to scrummaging and forward play, you can see it in the way they've been going about their business for the past few weeks, and in their results, and we know it's going to be a massive challenge for us up at Loftus.

"I played there for a coupe of years and the Bulls pride themselves in their physicality and forward dominance, it's going to be huge.

"But that's why we play the game, to play against some of the best. I played with a lot of the Bulls' guys for some time, we trained together and know each other well, but we have different systems now.

"I know what's coming, it's not going to be easy because they're really good at what they do, so it's all about focussing on our system and what we're trying to achieve."

Knowing what's coming, he explains just what is required.

"Their scrum is good, as is their mauling, but that's where you need to stand up and show your character. It's going to be a tough challenge, but we've been working very hard, we've put a few things in place and we're going up there to fight."

Having played for the Bulls between 2015 and 2021, earning close on 100 caps in the blue jersey, he admits there is something personal in this clash, but only insofar as all derbies are personal.

"I really enjoyed my time playing there, but there came I time when I needed to move on. Every game against a South African team is personal, it doesn't matter where you played or didn't. For me, it's about getting into the right mindset which is going out there and being physically present and do what you do well.

"It is personal, but I'm sure it's personal for them too when they play the Hollywoodbets Sharks, the DHL Stormers, or the Emirate Lions. It's personal for all of us when it comes to these games."

Talking taking things personal, he admits that playing for or against the Bulls does not change his attitude towards the opposition. As an equal opportunity rugby player, no-one in particular and everyone in general is given special attention.

"When I play, I go out there to try smash the opponent, whoever he might be! I just want to go out there with my team and beat whoever we're playing, regardless of who they are."

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