Sharks have learnt to respect the Lions, says Notshe

MIKE GREENAWAY

AFTER a successful but hardly polished performance against the Stormers last week, the Sharks turn their attention to the visiting Lions, a team they have learnt not to disrespect.

Yesterday, Sharks No 8 Sikhumbuzo Notshe pointed out how the Sharks almost came unstuck when the Lions came to Jonsson Kings Park for a Super Rugby Unlocked match last year.

“In that game, they showed us what they can do when we had a good first 40 (only to take the foot of the pedal) and then they came back in the second half and we ended up hanging on for the win.

“We have learnt from that and we know we have to start well and finish well too because they are a top quality side,” the 27-year-old stressed.

Notshe said that while the Lions are a different kind of team to the Stormers, they have to be respected in their own right.

“They are different to the Stormers (who have a very strong set piece) but they are also a physical team and we have to respect them,” Notshe said.

“It is maybe a bonus that their general (Elton Jantjies) is on loan (to a Japanese club), that gives us a bit of an edge but we do respect Fred Zeilinga, who did not do too badly against the Bulls last week and controlled them across the park.”

The Lions lost to the Bulls but impressed with their attacking intent, and the Sharks are expecting more of the same.

“Both sides will try and lift the tempo and play a high pace game,” Notshe said. “We will match them if they take us there, and they will match us if we set the pace.”

Notshe said that a faultless performance against the Stormers was never going to be on the cards because it was a first-round match.

“There will always be work-ons after your first game,” he said.

“A big one for us is our breakdown work – their stealers managed to get their hands on the ball because our reaction was poor in getting to our teammates who were carrying. A big focus this week has been on looking after the ball carrier.”

This has periodically been an area of concern for the Sharks ever since rugby resumed after lockdown.

“I wouldn't say it is an ongoing issue but it is an area where we have been inconsistent,” Notshe said. “Some games were good, then in others we lost concentration, so this weekend we have to make sure we look after our teammates when they go into contact.”