Ruthlessness is Sharks’ watchword
Ken Borland
The Sharks travel to Bloemfontein to take on a new-look Free State Cheetahs team in their Currie Cup match today, and adding a ruthless edge to their creative abilities is their priority.
With the home side spread thin due to Pro14 commitments in Ireland, the Sharks, who are fielding a team that would not be out of place in Super Rugby, should really be expecting to win well against a Free State outfit that resembles a SuperSport Rugby Challenge XV.
So for coach Robert du Preez, it is also important how they win, with the former Springbok scrumhalf wanting his team to be even more clinical than they were last weekend in beating the Blue Bulls in impressive fashion.
“Our transition from defence and our work-rate was outstanding in the first game, but it’s really important we keep that momentum going. We want to make sure we execute our opportunities, we want to be accurate and most tries come from turnovers, counter-attack and phase-play these days, so that’s what we’re focusing on.
“We identified during Super Rugby that we were one of the top four sides in terms of line-breaks and the top team for offloads, but we didn’t convert enough, so that’s something we’ve spent a lot of time on.
“When we were patient against the Bulls, we did really well; there were a dozen phases before Kobus van Wyk’s try. It’s about keeping it simple – ball through the hands, great support play and identifying the space,” Du Preez said.
Sharks captain Chiliboy Ralepelle (above) is looking to instil consistency in the Currie Cup side after their rollercoaster Super Rugby form condemned them to travelling to Christchurch to play the Crusaders, the eventual champions, in the quarterfinals.
“We’re not thinking about the Cheetahs being under-strength but about the opportunity the match provides for us. It’s about consistency, execution and keeping to our structures. They are going to be desperate too, so it’s going to be tough and we’ll have to keep a high intensity.
“We expect the unexpected from the Cheetahs, they are a young side full of energy and enthusiasm, and they will try to speed up the game and chase us around. The important thing is that we stick to our structures and our plan, while still allowing our youngsters to express themselves,” Ralepelle said.