Sharks to put the boot into Bulls
Today at 06:53 AM
Acknowledging the Vodacom Bulls' set-piece prowess, backline coach Dave Williams says the Sharks can gain the upper hand in Saturday's derby at Loftus with their kicking game.
Speaking during a team announcement conference on Thursday, Williams backed the Sharks to bring the right balance of physicality and tactical precision when they face the Bulls in the Vodacom URC clash in Pretoria.
"Rugby is built around that set-piece battle through the scrum and the lineout," Williams said. "But there's attacking threats throughout the [Sharks] backline, and obviously transition threats for their defence. And kick returns, we've got real potential to influence the game there."
The Sharks boast a potent mix of experience and youthful exuberance in their backline, headlined by two-time World Cup winner Lukhanyo Am at inside centre. With Siya Masuku at flyhalf and Jordan Hendrikse at fullback, the visitors have the kicking arsenal to dictate territory and punish the Bulls for any loose exits.
"Any opposition we play we look at the key pressure points and obviously the scrum is one the Bulls use well," Williams added. "But for us, it's about that complete performance in all formats of the game. We're looking to control certain moments and get advantage in other areas of the game."
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The fourth-placed Sharks, whose last URC outing was a bonus-point win in Cardiff on 25 January, are determined to stay in the hunt for a top-four finish. With the Bulls sitting five points ahead, the importance of Saturday's clash is clear.
The Sharks are missing Eben Etzebeth and Siya Kolisi but an all-Springbok front row of Ntuthuko Mchunu, Bongi Mbonambi and Trevor Nyakane will be crucial in resisting the Bulls' scrum dominance, spearheaded by the powerful Wilco Louw.
"Post-Cardiff we had a bit of downtime and then we got together last week for two really good training days, focusing on ourselves," Williams said. "This week has been a bit more prep around the opposition we're going to face, but the quality we've got [in the starting XV] and on the bench are guys who can influence the game.
"The guys who go out and get a chance to play just increases the depth of our squad; we've got the guys who are injured and on resting protocols, but the strength of the squad is just going to grow over the coming weeks as we get to the business end of the competition."
With the extra time off, the Sharks have had the opportunity to sharpen their focus for what promises to be an intense battle at Loftus.
"For any coaching staff or playing group, when you get some time away to connect with your family, it brings a lot of energy when you do come back," Williams said. "And around an SA derby, it just adds a greater intensity and focus to the week.
"I think every week we look at the opposition and it's about building a winning performance, and that's all we're looking for."
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
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