Praise for WP over 50-28 win

Western Province coach John Dobson says his side survived a tough test on their way to a 50-28 Currie Cup win over the Sharks at Newlands on Saturday‚ and are the better for it.

The Sharks appeared to be out of the game at 31-7 down after 26 minutes‚ but they fought back to bring themselves within three points early in the second half.

That was where Dobson felt his team showed its growing maturity by weathering the onslaught.

“It was the first time we have been really tested this season when the score closed to 31-28,” Dobson said.

“They had momentum and we were under pressure.

“I’ve seen countless teams give up in that situation‚ but the way we clawed our way back into the game to score three tries speaks volumes about our character.

“This is a very good Sharks side with lots of Test experience and to score 50 points against them at Newlands was special. I don’t want to complain about things‚ but we probably allowed them one or two line breaks too many.

“Our physicality was excellent, though.”

The win ensured that WP have a home Currie Cup semifinal with one match to go and they need just one point from their final match against Blue Bulls at Loftus to secure top spot in the overall standings.

That would mean a home Currie Cup final if they progressed through the semis.

Sharks coach Robert du Preez was disappointed with his side’s failure to take chances but praised their ability to stay in the contest until the final 10 minutes.

“We were disappointing at times, but did really well to come back‚” Du Preez said.

“But we have to give WP some credit because they took their chances and deserved the win.