Sharks show a polished edge in Hong Kong clash with Racing Metro

IN THESE sorts of pre-season friendlies, the result never really matters, it is more about the performance. But, for the Sharks, they can leave Hong Kong with two boxes ticked; a win against Racing Metro, and a sharp looking performance.

The Sharks came away with a 31-14 victory against the French as they dominated in pretty much all facets of play.

The Durban outfit scored five tries as the players did their best to make a statement ahead of the Lions game on February 17, in Johannesburg.

Early indication is the Sharks have been working on their skills – which translates into some entertaining rugby – as well as their conditioning. In both attack and defence, the Sharks were irrepressible, not slowing even towards the final play of the day.

Coach Robert du Preez’s influence came to the fore; always one for a very fit side, and one with a bit of something about them in attack, this Sharks side looked well drilled.

It all began with an easy try for what looks to be a fantastic acquisition for the Sharks, Makazole Mapimpi, the former Cheetahs man waltzing his way over.

The hard work however was all done by some slick hands in the centres, which then led to No 12, Marius Louw picking up a score.

The burly centre crashed over before the break to see the Sharks 12-0 to the good at the break. The scoreline probably flattered a Racing side, who were merely hanging on.

Louw was on hand to double his tally, scoring shortly after the kick-off thanks to some great interplay between Kobus van Wyk and Lukhanyo Am. Racing managed to get onto the scoreboard by grinding over from close range with their forwards.

This was soon cancelled out however as Cameron Wright benefited from the Sharks’ defensive pressure which saw the ball pop into his hands – the opportunistic scrumhalf throwing a dummy to dart over untouched.

The game drew to a close with the Sharks still going for the full 80 minutes, Curwin Bosch the last man to get over the white wash.

No doubt, as a spectacle, and as a warm up, this is a game that the Sharks management and fans will be happy with. Of course, the most pleasing aspect was there looked to be no serious injuries.