Sharks’ Van der Walt ready to fight for victory

THE Sharks have to slay last season’s demons very quickly and they are fortunate to have someone like Phillip van der Walt to help them do that.

The tough-as-nails loose forward took part in last year’s controversial Super Rugby quarterfinal when the Sharks lost 23-21.

In a game marred by inconsistent officiating‚ the Lions somehow got out of jail and moved on to their second consecutive Super Rugby final.

Van der Walt had a monumental outing and though the Sharks played out of their skins‚ it was clear it was not their time yet. Things could be different this season The Sharks have stability. They have retained the core of their team and have seemingly improved their coaching staff.

Van der Walt, though, still respects the threat the Lions pose ahead of Saturday’s Super Rugby encounter to be played at Ellis Park.

“I think the Lions will be even sharper and teams always work harder with the time they have in the off-season‚” he said.

“I think they’ll be motivated to win it and I don’t think they’re going to change much.”

But having qualified for two consecutive Super Rugby quarterfinals‚ the Sharks know they need to go and do better this season. – TimesLIVE