Coach goes back to his trusted troops

The Sharks had a ball in beating Griquas last weekend in Kimberley, but coach Robert du Preez yesterday reverted back to the line-up that has got them to the Currie Cup semifinals ahead of their final four showdown against the Golden Lions at King’s Park tomorrow.

Du Preez stressed that all that has gone before does not matter now that the competition has come to a one-off knockout game, and continuity is vital, even if it means conservative selections, to make sure the Sharks don’t miss the grand ball, which is the final.

Because of that, Robert du Preez will be back at flyhalf, Marius Louw returns at inside centre and the skilful Curwin Bosch is moved to fullback.

“It was probably one of the most difficult selection meetings I’ve had for the last two years, but we decided to go with the guys who have done the job in the last five weeks, for the sake of continuity. A good flyhalf should be able to play 12 as well, and vice-versa, and the experiment in Kimberley was good and something we will definitely consider going forward.”

Du Preez has also gone back to powerhouse Thomas du Toit as the starting tighthead, with the rampaging Akker van der Merwe preferred in the No 2 jersey to regular captain Chiliboy Ralepelle.

But the Sharks will be able to bring some charging bull Springboks off the bench in the final quarter, where the Lions love to raise the tempo, and this is where the semifinal could well be won and lost.

Having Coenie Oosthuizen and Jean-Luc du Preez come on as replacements will provide a massive boost for the Sharks, while there is plenty of x-factor in the backline substitutes, with scrumhalf Cameron Wright and flyers Aphelele Fassi and Leolin Zas sure to severely test any weary legs in the opposition.

“I’m so happy for Leolin, he’s been through a very tough two years after he broke his leg while he was still with the Stormers at the start of last year. It’s been a tough road back for him, with lots of ups and downs, but the courage and determination he has shown proves the quality of the player. I’m sure he will give his very best when he comes on,” Du Preez said.