The Shark’s Academy has seen many aspiring athletes pursue their rugby dreams and become familiar household names. Tendai Mtwarira, Francois Steyn, Lwazi Mvovo, Patrick Lambie and JP Pietersen are among some of the many success stories at The Sharks Academy. 

Ryno van Rensburg is one of our most recent Sharks Academy students who has been relentless in his pursuit of excellence and has been rewarded with an opportunity of a lifetime. 

“Joining the Sharks Academy in 2021 was a dream come true. It marked the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and unwavering passion for the sport. My journey in rugby has been an incredible adventure, filled with challenges and triumphs.

Playing alongside some of the best athletes in the sport has not only improved my skills but also taught me the value of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. The camaraderie and friendships forged on and off the field are irreplaceable.

Through rigorous training and intense matches, I’ve grown as a player and as an individual. The thrill of competing at such a high level is exhilarating, and I’ve had the privilege of representing the Sharks Academy with pride and honor.

I am immensely grateful to my coaches, teammates, and everyone who has supported me on this incredible journey.”

For more information on the Sharks Academy visit:  https://sharksacademy.co.za/

The post SHARKS ACADEMY’S SHINING STAR appeared first on The Sharks Durban.

Food Lover’s Market, South Africa’s largest privately owned retailer, has entered Sharks-infested waters with an exciting two-year partnership with The Sharks.

Known for being the best in fresh, Food Lover’s Market has a passion for excellence and, through vision and commitment, has significantly increased their presence throughout South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. The Sharks association with Food Lover’s Market mirrors their approach, and in their quest to establish a greater global presence, they are excited to partner with a brand that shares a similar ethos of family and excellence.

Commenting on the partnership, The Sharks CEO, Dr Eduard Coetzee said: “We are delighted to welcome Food Lover’s Market to The Sharks family. The Food Lover’s Market brand has shown tremendous growth and become a major part of the South African food industry. This partnership allows for great synergy and potential and we look forward to working closely with the Food Lover’s team in achieving our collective objectives and making this partnership a mutually beneficial one.”

Says Travis Coppin, CEO of Food Lover’s Market retail, “As a proudly South African brand, Food Lover’s Market is delighted to be the Official Food Sponsor of The Sharks. Food Lover’s Market is on a journey to become the best store in the community. With this in mind, we upgraded three of our stores in Kwazulu-Natal – La Lucia, Ballito and The Crescent. These three stores have all been refurbished to offer uncompromising value, range and quality to local shoppers.”

“With that in mind, we understand the power of building a community through sport and our sponsorship and support of The Sharks into 2025 further indicates our commitment to the region. We look forward to offering The Sharks and the community of KZN the best in fresh.”

From the 2023/2024 season, the Food Lover’s Market logo will appear on the side panel of the Hollywoodbets Sharks playing shorts.

ENDS.

Issued by: The Sharks and Food Lover’s Market

The post THE SHARKS WELCOME FOOD LOVERS MARKET TO THEIR FAMILY appeared first on The Sharks Durban.

The Sharks unveiled Hollywoodbets as their new title sponsor. This is the next exciting chapter in a formidable partnership that started in 2019, which sees the Purple Team now acquire title sponsorship, in addition to stadium naming rights of the iconic Hollywoodbets Kings Park.

Commenting on this exciting announcement, The Sharks’ CEO, Dr Eduard Coetzee, said: “We are delighted to announce Hollywoodbets as our new title sponsor. The unwavering support, commitment to excellence, and investment over the last few years has been immense and we look forward to taking our valued partnership to the next level.”

“This strong partnership will continue to be elevated in the years to come. With both brands having an international footprint and global appeal, this evolution in our relationship is a momentous occasion for the global sporting and entertainment communities alike.”

“Hollywoodbets have taken the global sponsorship industry by storm, and they are a brand that supports and engages with their partners for mutual success and growth. Our focus is to continue to make magic together and to work closely to ensure that our collective objectives are met.”

Coetzee added: “We would like to acknowledge our outgoing title sponsor, Cell C for their massive contribution to The Sharks for over a decade as title sponsor. Their support and invaluable investment through the highs and lows cannot be underestimated. Although they are stepping aside from the title sponsorship portfolio, we are thrilled that they will continue to be a large part of The Sharks family moving forward, as an Official Partner.”

The Sharks consistently seek to uphold a legacy of excellence and we are determined to achieve our objective of becoming an iconic symbol of rugby prowess. The dedication to teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship aligns seamlessly with Hollywoodbets’ core values, making this sponsorship a natural progression for both entities. This partnership exemplifies our collective vision for the future, and we look forward to an unforgettable adventure that will resonate globally.

Devin Heffer, Brand and Communications Manager for Hollywoodbets said, “Hollywoodbets is honoured to be the new title sponsor of The Sharks. Being a Durban born and based company, we are massive Sharks fans! We know how much this team means to the fans and how it is an institution of our province. Through the passion and energy, we put into every sponsorship, we look forward to enhancing The Sharks supporter experience, and further growing The Sharks position as one of the most recognisable rugby brands in the world.”

“We share many values with The Sharks family, including ubuntu, community support, and sports development. We are nothing without our communities, and we are incredibly proud of the work we have done through our Hollywood Foundation. This has been extended through the sport of rugby, where we have developed the game at grassroots levels through our sponsorship of community clubs across South Africa via the Phaka Rugby Magazine Show, and the Hollywood Foundation iQhawe Week.”

“Further to this, we have worked closely with The Sharks in their Hands of Hope campaigns, and currently sponsor six bursaries for students at the Sharks Academy. Through our title sponsorship of the Hollywoodbets Sharks, we look forward to further developing the future of South African rugby talent and working together in empowering our South African communities.” 

Through strategic collaborations and impactful sponsorships, Hollywoodbets have established itself as a major player in the world of sports sponsorship. By becoming the title sponsor of The Sharks, Hollywoodbets further cements its commitment to promoting and supporting sport in South Africa and around the world.

As Hollywoodbets steps into its new role as title sponsor, fans can anticipate an array of thrilling activations and engagements. This partnership will undoubtedly invigorate the team and our loyal supporters, who quite simply form the heart and soul of The Sharks’ success. 

From the 2023/2024 rugby season, the Hollywoodbets logo will feature prominently on the front and back of The Sharks playing jerseys across all competitions and these jerseys will be available for sale from early October.

“As this new era dawns for The Sharks, the entire organisation, our players, staff and fans stand united in welcoming Hollywoodbets as our title sponsor”, concluded Coetzee.

ENDS.

Issued by: The Sharks (Pty) Ltd and Hollywoodbets Sportsbook Holdings Proprietary Limited

The post HOLLYWOODBETS ANNOUNCED AS THE SHARKS NEW TITLE SPONSOR appeared first on The Sharks.

• Holders Stade Rochelais and Leinster Rugby renew rivalry at Marcel Deflandre in Champions Cup, Round 1
• Gallagher Premiership winners Saracens will start their campaign against the Vodacom Bulls in Pretoria
• Black Lion of Georgia will host Gloucester Rugby in first appearance in the EPCR Challenge Cup
• Tournaments kick off on weekend of 8/9/10 December with the EPCR Finals Weekend taking place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on 24 and 25 May 2024

Back-to-back tournament winners, Stade Rochelais, will clash with last season’s runners-up, Leinster Rugby, in what promises to be another monumental contest between two of the world’s most powerful clubs when Round 1 of the 2023/24 Champions Cup gets under way in December.

The Pool 4 showdown is set for Stade Marcel Deflandre on Sunday 10 December live on TNT Sports in the UK and Ireland, on SuperSport in South Africa, as well as on France Télévisions and beIN SPORTS in France, following today’s announcement of the Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup pool stage fixture dates, venues, kick-off times and TV coverage.

Predictably, the competition involving 24 elite clubs with 40 EPCR titles between them won’t get any less demanding for Stade Rochelais who then travel to Cape Town to face the DHL Stormers in Round 2, before hosting Leicester Tigers in Round 3 and finalising their pool stage schedule against Sale Sharks at the AJ Bell Stadium on Sunday 21 January 2024 live and free-to-air in the UK and Ireland on ITV with additional coverage on TNT Sports and SuperSport.

Click HERE for the 2023/24 Champions Cup fixtures

EPCR Chairman, Dominic McKay, said: “We are delighted to announce the details of EPCR’s 2023/24 tournament pool stage fixtures five months before the tournaments get under way again in December. This has been a collaborative process and we thank the clubs, leagues and our broadcast partners for their assistance in finalising the schedule in such a short period of time. We know the fans will be hugely excited about the fixtures and they are now able to plan their weekends well in advance. There are some intriguing clashes in the pool stages with world-class rugby for all to see.”

Gallagher Premiership winners, Saracens, are heading to Pretoria in Round 1 to take on the Vodacom Bulls on Saturday 9 December live on SuperSport and TNT Sport. Their Pool 1 campaign will see them at home in Rounds 2 and 4 against Connacht Rugby and Lyon respectively, and in between they will go toe-to-toe with Union Bordeaux-Begles at Stade Chaban Delmas in Round 3.

Two-time tournament winners and last season’s URC champions, Munster Rugby, will be at Thomond Park for their Round 1 and Round 4 fixtures against newcomers, Aviron Bayonnais, and Northampton Saints respectively – with both matches live and free-to-air on RTE in Ireland – while in Rounds 2 and 3 the Irish province will be on the road to face Exeter Chiefs and the 2023 EPCR Challenge Cup winners, RC Toulon in Pool 3.

Stade Toulousain, who clinched the TOP 14 title in such dramatic fashion last month, open their Pool 2 campaign at Stade Ernest Wallon against Cardiff Rugby on Saturday 9 December live on beIN SPORTS, France Télévisions, S4C, TNT Sports and SuperSport before travelling to Harlequins in Round 2 and then to Ulster Rugby in Round 3. The five-time Champions Cup winners wrap up their pool stage schedule with a home tie against Bath Rugby in Round 4.

Leinster, tournament runners-up in the past two seasons, are at home in Rounds 2 and 3 against Sale Sharks and Stade Francais Paris respectively with either the RDS Arena or the Aviva Stadium to be confirmed as venues in the ultra-competitive Pool 4, and they will hope to book their place in the knockout stage once again when they travel to take on old rivals, Leicester Tigers, at Mattioli Woods Welford Road in Round 4 on Saturday 20 January.

Meanwhile, in the EPCR Challenge Cup, debutants Cell C Sharks will have home advantage in Rounds 1 and 3 for their meetings with Section Paloise and last season’s PRO D2 winners, Oyonnax Rugby, with both fixtures live on SuperSport and beIN SPORTS. In Round 2 they will go head-to-head with South African rivals, the Toyota Cheetahs, in Bloemfontein on Sunday 17 December before concluding their Pool 1 campaign against Dragons RFC at Rodney Parade on Sunday 21 January.

Click HERE for the 2023/24 EPCR Challenge Cup fixtures

Black Lion, who are the first Georgian club to compete in one of EPCR’s main professional competitions, kick off their Pool 3 schedule on Saturday 9 December when they host Gloucester Rugby at the 27,000-capacity Mikheil Meskhi Stadium in Tbilisi live on epcrugby.tv, Viaplay-Premier Sports and beIN SPORTS.

The Georgians will then be away in Rounds 2 and 3 against the Scarlets and Castres Olympique respectively ahead of their Round 4 clash at home against three-time tournament winners, ASM Clermont Auvergne.

Clermont’s schedule sees them up against Edinburgh Rugby at Stade Marcel-Michelin in Round 1 on Friday 8 December live on beIN SPORTS and Viaplay-Premier Sports, followed by an away fixture at Gloucester, and a home tie against the Scarlets before they travel to Tbilisi to face Black Lion in Round 4.

Another previous tournament winner, Montpellier Hérault Rugby, open their Pool 2 campaign against the Newcastle Falcons at Kingston Park on Sunday 10 December before back-to-back home fixtures against the Ospreys and the Emirates Lions, and then in Round 4, they will be on the road to Treviso where Benetton Rugby, who reached the semi-finals last season, will provide the opposition.

The fixture schedules were determined by using an algorithm which took into consideration the new, improved tournament formats, the outcome of the pool draws, league calendar restrictions, individual club calendar restrictions and broadcast requirements.
CHAMPIONS CUP
• 24 elite clubs, 11 previous tournament winners, 40 EPCR titles
• Four pools of six
• Four pool stage rounds, four knockout stage rounds
• Four highest-ranked clubs from each pool qualify for the knockout stage
• Fifth-ranked club in each pool qualifies for the EPCR Challenge Cup
Click HERE for the Champions Cup pools

EPCR CHALLENGE CUP
• 18 clubs in three pools of six
• Black Lion are first Georgian club to compete in EPCR Challenge Cup
• Four pool stage rounds, four knockout stage rounds
• Four highest-ranked clubs in each pool qualify for the knockout stage
Click HERE for the EPCR Challenge Cup pools
2023/24 weekends
Round 1 – 8/9/10 December 2023
Round 2 – 15/16/17 December 2023
Round 3 – 12/13/14 January 2024
Round 4 – 19/20/21 January 2024
Round of 16 – 5/6/7 April 2024
Quarter-finals – 12/13/14 April 2024
Semi-finals – 3/4/5 May 2024
EPCR Challenge Cup final – Friday 24 May 2024, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Champions Cup final – Saturday 25 May 2024, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

Weekend tickets for both EPCR Finals are on sale now with fans able to access the best seats at the best prices. For information and to purchase tickets please click HERE.

ENDS

The post 2023/24 EPCR pool stage fixture dates, venues, kick-off times and TV coverage announced appeared first on The Sharks.

The Cell C Sharks fought to the bitter end but were eventually undone 26-20 against the Airlink Pumas at Hollywoodbets Kings Park in their Currie Cup semi-final on Saturday evening.

The game was tight from start to finish, the kickers searching for errors and the forwards gigantic from both sides in a pressure match that meant much to both teams.

The game couldn’t have started on a more unfortunate note, the Pumas opening the scoring in the first minute after pressure at the kick-off saw them regain possession and after a few phases, scoring the first try of the game, the conversion pushing them into a seven-nil lead.

The visitors extended their lead just short of the quarter hour mark with an effective maul drive try, going 12-0 ahead before Lionel Cronje converted a penalty to cut the lead after the Pumas had infringed on defence in their 22.

Although it had been a slow start from the Cell C Sharks, they started to find their rhythm and a series of dominant scrums and subsequent penalties started to grow belief and shift the momentum in their way.

Working their way out of their 22, the pressure on the visitors took its toll and after a sustained build-up, Corne Rahl finished off the movement, Cronje converted and at 12-10 with 10 minutes of the half remaining, it was game on.

But an intercept try from the Pumas as the Cell C Sharks stole possession and tried to run the ball out of their 22 cancelled the try out, the visitors leading 19-10. The see-saw nature of the game continued, but once again it was a dominant scrum that set up the next try, powering through the Pumas forwards to set up the penalty lineout drive, with Fez Mbatha the man in possession and with Cronje converting, there were just two points in it as half-time beckoned.

At 19 points to 17 at the break, the Pumas had been reeled in and there was a sense of belief in the Cell C Sharks that needed to continue in the second half.

With their tails up, the Cell C Sharks started to imprint their presence on the game and a dangerous tackle, yellow card and penalty delivered the three points inside the opening 10 minutes of the second half to go ahead 20-19.

With 25 minutes remaining, the Pumas had a maul try cleared by the TMO to retake the lead, the touchline conversion taking them 26-20 ahead.

What ensured was a period of Cell C Sharks dominance as they hammered away at the visitors, intent on retaking the lead, one within sight and grasp. But last year’s finalists were leaving nothing on the field, their heroics on defence testament to their absolute belief that this was a game they could win.

As the game headed for the final whistle, the Cell C Sharks took the ball through umpteen phases, hammering away at the Pumas’ defence. To their credit and with a place in the final, the visitors defended for their lives and ultimately managed to hold out against the odds to hang on to their lead.

Next week’s Currie Cup Final will be hosted in Bloemfontein after Toyota Free State defeated the Vodacom Blue Bulls 39-10 in the earlier semi-final.

The post Semi-Final Sadness appeared first on The Sharks.

Cell C Shark coach Joey Mongalo has gone to the tried and tested as the Currie Cup semi-final looms large this weekend.

A second place finish after the 14 week pool stages has ensured a home semi-final at Hollywoodbets Kings Park this Saturday against the Airlink Pumas.

Last year’s champions, the Airlink Pumas, will come to Durban planning big things, their third place finish proof of their prowess this season.

However, they are up against a Cell C Shark team that has been together all campaign and formed a formidable head of steam as the tournament headed for the knockout stages.

Reniel Hugo continues his impressive leadership as he captains a side markedly different to last week’s team.

He and his teammates were given a much-needed rest and now return to action in front of a passionate home crowd.

Saturday’s semi-final clash at Hollywoodbets Kings Park kicks off at 5.30pm.

Cell C Sharks

1. Khwezi Mona
2. Fez Mbatha
3. Khutha Mchunu
4. Corne Rahl
5. Reniel Hugo (c)
6. James Venter
7. Vincent Tshituka
8. Henco Venter
9. Bradley Davids
10. Lionel Cronje
11. Aphelele Fassi
12. Alwayno Visagie
13. Murray Koster
14. Yaw Penxe
15. Nevaldo Fleurs

Replacements

1. Kerron van Vuuren
2. Ntuthuko Mchunu
3. Carlu Sadie
4. Ockie Barnard
5. Marco de Witt
6. Sikhumbuzo Notshe
7. Tiaan Fourie
8. Curwin Bosch

The post Time for the Knockouts appeared first on The Sharks.

This Saturday, the Cell C Sharks take a step that will hopefully result in a place in the Currie Cup Final when they host the Airlink Pumas at Hollywoodbets Kings Park.

Reflecting on the team’s position, Cell C Sharks captain Reniel Hugo admits that the loss to DHL Western Province last weekend wasn’t part of the plans, but there was a bigger plan in action.

“We didn’t go to Cape Town to lose, there was firm belief in the team and everyone going down there to do the job and make sure we finish first,” he explains.

“We trusted our gut, it was an ideal opportunity to rest some of the guys who had played a lot of minutes, having already booked a home semi-final. After 14 weeks and without any rest periods, the bodies are sore and it was amazing for us to get the chance to rest up for the play-offs.”

Despite the break, Hugo doesn’t believe that there will be a pause in the team’s momentum as they head into Saturday’s semi-final.

“We’ve played a lot of rugby up to this point and it’s not something we’re worried about. We’re all fresh, working hard this week and ready to go.”

With Toyota Free State hosting the Vodacom Bulls in one semi-final, the Cell C Sharks vs Pumas clash is a mouth-watering prospect.

“We play the Pumas this weekend, they’re the defending champions and they will want to come to Durban to prove a point. They will be hungry, they want to come and beat us here, but we’re fortunate enough to play in front of our fans who have been with us and behind us all season. We want to put on a show on Saturday and make the jersey proud.

“We’re a group of desperate men who want to go all the way in this year’s Currie Cup.”

Coached by the South African legendary Jimmy Stonehouse, the Pumas will come to Hollywoodbets breathing fire. With limited rugby opportunities during the course of the year, they throw everything into the Currie Cup campaign and their success last year is testament to just how much they value South Africa’s premier domestic rugby competition.

Looking at their strengths, Hugo points out that, “They pride themselves on their set-piece, they have a really good coach, they train hard and they’re a very physical team. They will come here looking to dominate the scrums, the mauls, the lineouts.

“They also have a very good kicking game, so they have all-round threats. They will come here with belief, looking to win.

“But we trust our systems, we’ve worked hard and we just need to be better in every aspect. We also need to make sure we play for the full 80 minutes because it’s going to be really physical and you can’t afford to rest for even one minute.

“Focus is vital.”

The post A Step Closer appeared first on The Sharks.

The Cell C Sharks will be seeking another character-driven performance in the Currie Cup on Saturday when they meet DHL Western Province in the final round of the pool stages.

With a home semi-final secured and looking to maintain their position on the top of the log which would translate into a home final should they get there, a win in Cape Town is not negotiable as the Cell C Sharks chase an eighth straight victory in their march towards glory under coach Joey Mongalo.

This team has had an injection of URC players as the tournament reaches the business end, Phepsi Buthelezi leading a team that shows 14 changes from last week’s starting XV with an eye on having a rejuvenated squad available for the knock-outs.

Assistant coach JP Pietersen explains: “It’s been a very long Currie Cup and the majority of the boys have played throughout. We had a chat as coaches about freshening them up, getting them hungry for a home semi, that’s one thing we’re 100% sure of. We want to put all our energy into the home semi.

“In saying that, we still need to do the job in Cape Town so we can get a home final.”

Pietersen points out that continuity has been important throughout the campaign, but given the demands on the bodies, player welfare and management is key at this stage.

“The group has really put their hands up and the cohesion is really good. You have to give the boys credit for this, they’ve won games and it’s been easy to stick with them.”

Key to the unbeaten streak is not only in the performances, but in the players’ positive and ambitious mental state.

“You can see in the results that this is a group that’s been together and played together for a long time, the cohesion is there. But as coaches, you can coach as much as you can, but the want from the players is there.

“That’s very satisfying for the coaches, we give them the platform to express their talent and they have shown the desire to not simply be competitive in the Currie Cup, they want to win it.”

Saturday’s match at the Cape Town Stadium kicks off at 17:00.

Cell C Sharks

1. Khwezi Mona
2. Kerron van Vuuren
3. Carlu Sadie
4. Hyron Andrews
5. Gerbrandt Grobler
6. Thembelani Bholi
7. Phepsi Buthelezi (c)
8. Sikhumbuzo Notshe
9. Cameron Wright
10. Curwin Bosch
11. Phiko Sobahle
12. Marnus Potgieter
13. Rohan Janse van Rensburg
14. Werner Kok
15. Thaakir Abrahams

Replacements 

16. Dameon Venter
17. Dian Bleuler
18. Hanro Jacobs
19. Corne Rahl
20. Nick Hatton (debut)
21. Celimpilo Gumede
22. Tiaan Fourie
23. Nevaldo Fleurs

The post Fighting For Glory appeared first on The Sharks.

The Cell C Sharks Under 19 campaign in the SA Rugby Under 19 Cup comes to a climax this Saturday when they take on the Blue Bulls Under 19s in the tournament’s final in Pretoria.

It’s been an exciting and fruitful effort for the youngsters and they now find themselves a step closer to glory after defeating Western Province in the semi-final last weekend.

“Last weekend’s win was a great result for us, we went to Cape Town confident and things turned in our favour,” explains coach Mike Vowles. “We were really happy with the team’s performance, we stuck to the plan, played within our system and that gave us plenty of reward.

“It was a great fight and test of the team’s character and we’re very proud of how the boys came through.”

It doesn’t get any easier this weekend, but the outcome of finals can never really be predicted early, it’s all about what happens on the day.

“This weekend is a new challenge and like any final, comes with its own set of pressures, but we’ve prepared really well, handled the workload to keep the guys fresh.

“They’re chomping at the bit to put in a really good performance. We understand that the margins in finals are very small and we have to make sure we’re on top of our game.

“We have a lot of respect for the Bulls team and the way they’ve played, but there’s an understanding of the challenge that we face and this is a team that’s grown really nicely over the last few weeks. To see them perform like they have is brilliant.

“We also feel that we’re peaking at the right time. We had a slow start to the comp but we’ve got better and better, so we’re confident and looking forward to the challenge.”

Cell C Sharks Under 19

1. Bradley Stanfliet
2. Ethan Bester
3. Nicholas Snyman
4. Garren Muller
5. Sphephelo Mbonambi
6. Matthew Fick
7. Connor Carson
8. Thomas Dyer (c)
9. AJ Knoetze
10. Drico Marx
11. Spha Ngcobo
12. Stehan Heymans
13. Michal de Beer
14. Somanga Jho
15. Hendrik Pienaar

Replacements
16. Andrew Davis
17. Faasen Laubscher
18. Siyabonga Dube
19. Trent Roux
20. Hugo – Ben Horn
21. Dallyn Beukes
22. Deano Boesak
23. Risima Sambo

The post Fighting For Glory appeared first on The Sharks.

Forced to come from behind in their bonus point victory over the ADT Security Lions at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Saturday, the Cell C Sharks are now well-placed for the final round before the knock-outs.

It was a victory built off character and desire and the players stepped up when called upon to finish off a highly competitive Lions’ outfit.

“Highly stressful,” was Cell C Sharks Currie Cup head coach Joey Mongalo’s initial reaction following the team’s victory.

“The Lions were desperate and they showed it, I must compliment them. They gave us the perfect prep for a semi-final.”

It was not the easiest of victories and for parts of the game, the result hung in the balance. But this is a Cell C Sharks side riding a wave of confidence, no doubt aided hugely by continuity and the seven game winning streak has handed them the opportunity to remain top of the log at the conclusion of the pool stages. And with that, a home semi-final, and a home final if it comes to that.

“It doesn’t get tougher than being 14-nil down, against a team desperate to stay alive in the competition. That was the best practice – and I say that respectfully – that we could have had for a semi-final.”

Having fought back from 14-nil down to see out the first half 14 points apiece, Mongalo explained that the half-time talk was all about encouraging the players.

“The message was quite positive, because despite the fact that we didn’t play much rugby in the first half, we managed to fight back to 14-all. The talk was about applying what we were supposed to, we should be OK.

“Aside from being an encouraging message, it was also a challenge posed to them. About how they want the season to play out. That was left in their hands and clearly they decided the right thing.”

The never-give-up attitude from the team has been evident throughout the tournament, demonstrated amply in this clash.

“Character and leadership,” Mongalo highlighted.

“I think [captain] Reniel Hugo is one of the best men and one of the best leaders I’ve ever met. So when things get tough on the field, I know that with his quiet leadership, he has a way to get the team still going.

“We have quite a few guys in that space who help lead the guys on the field.”

He added that another factor counting in his team’s favour is their passion for the brand.

“There’s one thing when you have a team logo, but they show it and live it out. And that’s something they have to keep showing for the next few weeks.”

With one pool game remaining, against DHL Western Province in Cape Town this weekend, Mongalo admitted that he wants more of the same from his team.

“It’s all about keeping momentum and holding on, we understand how the group needs that as a stepping stone to the play-off on 17 June. But a semi-final is not in our mind’s eye , we know that we have a job to do in Cape Town and those guys will be desperate to get five points to give themselves a chance of making the play-offs.”

The post Good Prep appeared first on The Sharks.

The Cell C Sharks were forced to work hard against a competitive ADT Security Lions team before showing their class for a 29-21 bonus point Currie Cup victory at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Saturday evening.

Although a home semi-final had been secured before kick-off even, the fight for top spot had intensified with Free State edging the Pumas in the earlier game of the day. The five log points ensured that the Cell C Sharks remain in top spot with their final pool game against DHL Western Province still to be played.

But onto this tense, action-packed game. There are many adjectives to describe this game: heroic, tough, brutal, opportunistic. Those and more, but certainly no shortage of drama in a game where the ebb and flow of momentum swung from one side to the other throughout, before the Cell C Sharks took control in the second half and made sure of their seventh straight victory in the tournament.

The Lions opened the scoring 10 minutes into a game that was all about grinding away at the opposition, a forward effort off an attacking lineout, with the successful conversion giving the visitors a 7-nil lead.

The Lions delivered a near carbon-copy effort to score their second try, five minutes later after some strong competing to initially turn over possession and then send a penalty to the line, secure the lineout drive and then close out their dream start with the second conversion.

The Cell C Sharks struck gold 28 minutes into the absolute dog fight of a match, the forwards hammering away at the line before hooker Fez Mbatha powered his way over, Lionel Cronje converting to reduce the margin back to seven points.

Aphelele Fassi, having shown great interest in finding work throughout, made his presence felt as the game headed towards half-time, reading a long pass from the Lions in the midfield perfectly, snatching the intercept and racing to the tryline, with Cronje levelling the scores.

An exciting passage of play – the best of the half from either side – ensured as the Cell C Sharks came close to taking the lead, but the move failed to yield dividends.  But it was a sign that the home team were on the up after suffering some early scares.

Ntuthuko Mchunu replaced Kwezi Mona in the second half and immediately made his formidable presence felt, winning a scrum penalty and then closing off a close-quarter attack to score his team’s third try inside the opening five minutes. Cronje’s boot was on the mark for the extra two points and a 21-14 lead.

The joy was short-lived as former Sharks’ scrumhalf Sanele Nohamba found space out wide to score his team’s third try and converting to level matters once again.

Both sides hammered away at one another, with the Lions spending long periods of phase play in the Cell C Sharks’ 22 but unable to break the back of some incredibly brave and resolute defence.   

But the wall eventually broke as both sides delivered heroics, for the Cell C Sharks on attack and the Lions on defence of their tryline, but eventually there was a crack and then a devastating score, Mchunu scoring his second as he bulldozed his way over for the bonus point try and a 26-21 lead with just over five minutes remaining.

With confidence and momentum on their side, the Cell C Sharks dominated the final minutes of the game, Kerron van Vuuren outstanding as a poacher and then the rest of his team-mates putting on a show before the Lions gave away an unnecessary penalty that Nevaldo Fleurs converted for an eight point lead.  

The post Scintillating Victory appeared first on The Sharks.

Saturday’s penultimate Currie Cup round, when the Cell C Sharks host the Fidelity ADT Lions at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, is a crucial weekend of action as the teams all vie for positions on the log.

Having fought their way against the odds and some fine opposition, the Cell C Sharks have worked their way to top spot on the log and that’s how they will want the pool stages to end before the knock-outs.

But there’s no room for general thoughts and looking too far into the future, says Cell C Sharks hooker Fez Mbatha.

“Every single game is important and it doesn’t matter where we are on the log. It’s all about keeping momentum right now and making sure we do everything we need to do heading towards the play-offs.

“We’re taking it one game at a time, making sure that we play our best, every weekend to give us the best possible chance of winning the Currie Cup.”

There’s been a praiseworthy run of wins and when winning is a habit, it’s one a team would love to continue.

“The mood in the camp right now is really high, but we understand the importance of not taking our collective foot off the pedal. It’s about putting in hard work, keeping momentum and getting better each week.

“We know we’re not quite at our best yet so for us, the focus is on continuous improvement.”

Having fought hard to a position where the team has won six games on the trot and accumulated points and momentum that elevated them to top of the log following last weekend’s victory over the Griffons, Mbatha provides some insights into the team’s recent successes.

“For us it’s been about momentum and keeping the same guys in the system, who understand the system so that we can execute to the best of our ability. I feel like we have achieved a lot of that, but there is also a lot we can improve on. Our game is far from perfect, we’re not quite there yet.

“It’s all about continuous improvement.”

Success isn’t just derived from performance, but a collective positive vibe, which is something the Cell C Sharks hooker acknowledges.

“It’s an awesome environment to be in, we’re all aligned towards one goal and when you have that, you all work towards a common goal. There’s a lot of hard work taking place behind the scenes, we’re working hard to get better and better at the small things.

“The mood is good, but it’s only good when you’re putting in the hard work. And we are.”

Cell C Sharks

1. Khwezi Mona
2. Fez Mbatha
3. Khutha Mchunu
4. Ockie Barnard
5. Reniel Hugo (c)
6. Dylan Richardson
7. James Venter
8. Henco Venter
9. Tiaan Fourie
10. Lionel Cronje
11. Aphelele Fassi
12. Alwayno Visagie
13. Murray Koster
14. Yaw Penxe
15. Nevaldo Fleurs

Replacements
16. Kerron van Vuuren
17. Ntuthuko Mchunu
18. Hanru Jacobs
19. Marco de Witt
20. Vincent Tshituka
21. Bradley Davids
22. Rohan Janse van Rensburg
23. Marnus Potgieter

The post Maintaining Form appeared first on The Sharks.

The Cell C Sharks Under 19s are a step closer to a successive age group titles when they meet Western Province in the semi-finals of the SA Rugby Under 19 Cup in Cape Town on Saturday.

Following the single round tournament featuring six provincial unions, the knock-out rounds have arrived, with the Blue Bulls and Free State meeting in the other semi-final.

Commenting on last week’s loss to the Bulls, Cell C Sharks Under 20 coach Mike Vowles admits that despite the result, it was a game in which the team actually performed well.

“We’re obviously very disappointed with the result, although funny enough, we thought it was one of our best performances. I thought that we were really well organised and asked a lot of questions of the Bulls. We created a number of opportunities that we just couldn’t convert, but I was really impressed with the intensity and physicality that we brought to the game.

“So although we lost, I thought there were some massive positives to take out of the game and we were probably unlucky to not have scored a few tries. As probably one of our best performances, we’ve taken a huge amount of confidence out of that and we’ve prepared really well.”

Being in the right frame of mind for any match is important, but going into a knock-out game, knowing there is enough evidence that this team can go all the way is golden. Although it was tight, the 32-31 pool victory over their Cape Town rivals in early May is a huge boost for team morale as they go into this semi-final clash.

“We’re very excited about the opportunity to go to Cape Town for this semi-final. We’ve done it already this season and we beat Western Province there, so we’re confident after our performance against the Bulls that we will deliver something special.

“We’re confident and while we respect what Province bring, we have a plan we hope will get us across the line.”

Saturday’s coastal derby clash kicks off at Hamiltons Rugby Club at 1pm.

Cell C Sharks Under 19

1. Bradley Stanfliet
2. Ethan Bester
3. Nicholas Snyman
4. Garren Muller
5. Sphephelo Mbonambi
6. Matthew Ficks
7. Connor Carson
8. Thomas Dyer (c)
9. AJ Knoetze
10. Stehan Heymans
11. Spha Ngcobo
12. Drico Marx
13. Tholithemba Sibisi
14. Somanga Jho
15. Hendrik Pienaar

Replacements
16. Andrew Davis
17. Faasen Laubscher
18. Siyabonga Dube
19. Darren Ruth
20. Hugo-Ben Horn
21. Dallyn Beukes
22. Minenhle Ngcamu
23. Risima Sambo

The post Semi-Final Time appeared first on The Sharks.

The Cell C Sharks’ 35-9 victory Currie Cup victory over the Novavit Griffons on Friday afternoon ensures a top four spot and a place in the knock-outs with two rounds remaining.

Cell C Sharks Currie Cup head coach Joey Mongalo’s reflections on the performance were that it was a case of mission accomplished against a competitive Griffons’ team that threw everything at his team, playing for pride at their home ground.

“It was encouraging to get the five points, that’s what we came for to guarantee a semi-final spot because we don’t want to go into those last two weeks fighting for the semis,” he explained after the game.

“It was a character-building win to come from behind. If the Griffons had scored after half-time, at 16-7 down we would have been in trouble because the crowd gets behind them.

“Now that we have a semi-final spot, we can focus on getting ourselves the best chance of finishing as high up in the top four as possible.”

Looking at the game itself, he admitted that they got just what they expected from the Griffons who were competitive throughout.

In analysing the two teams’ performances in each half, he added that, “Credit must be given to them, they defended well and they must be applauded for the way they defended our kicking game. They gave us something we haven’t seen in this competition so far, so congrats to them.

“We must acknowledge that they played well rather than looking at our frustrations. Well done to them.

“The second half was a case of the same plans, just executed better with more desire, fight and hunger; just more.  That and the effort shown was the difference between the two halves.”

Mongalo had named a number of URC regulars amongst the replacements and credited their effort in the second half.

“It’s also to be acknowledged that it helps to bring on the type of bench that we had,” he admitted.

“That helps a heck of a lot and it’s unfair to the Griffons who probably didn’t have as much on the bench as we had That was the point of difference between the two halves.”

Although they were made to work hard, and met some fierce resistance, particularly in the first half, the second half produced the goods on the scoresheet that rewarded the team with five log points that had them finishing the weekend on top spot.

“The importance of us getting a bonus point guarantees us a spot in the semi-finals and that’s a block that needed to be ticked.”

Next up is the Fidelity ADT Lions at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Saturday evening, a team that come off a morale-boosting 34-12 victory over DHL Western Province which helps their fight for a top four finish.

“This is almost like a quarter-final for them, they have to beat us to stay alive. Everyone knows their character, when the chips are down, they probably play their best rugby, so we expect nothing short of their best performance of the year.

“But we are a team that also takes pride in what we do, the last time we played then the result didn’t go well for us, so this game is going to be just as personal for us as it is for them.

“We do have a proud record at home and it’s something we want to uphold so we are definitely looking forward to the challenge, we’re very excited about it.”

The post Semi-Final Secured appeared first on The Sharks.

The Cell C Sharks absorbed everything the Novavit Griffons threw at them in the return leg Currie Cup clash match at Down Touch Investments Stadium on Friday afternoon before blitzing them in the second half to secure a bonus point 35-9 victory.

This round 12 match was a game of two distinctly contrasting halves, the home side competitive and leading at half-time, before the Cell C Sharks came out from the break breathing fire and when they ignited the after-burners, there was no stopping them as they dominated the second 40 in fine style, blowing the game away and securing the double, having earned a 32-16 first round victory at Hollywoodbets Kings Park earlier in the competition.

The first quarter was a high-paced affair with both sides giving the ball plenty of air in the territorial battle, but it was the home side who scored first, the second bite at the cherry securing a three-pointer after missing an earlier penalty.

The Griffons had come to play and were able to frustrate the Cell C Sharks, to the point of securing a second penalty a few minutes later to extend their lead to 6-nil after 22 minutes.

It took until after the first half hour for the next score, this time Lionel Cronje having the easiest of tries after Reniel Hugo had pressured a Griffons’ clearance kick, charged the ball down and then the home side unable to secure possession behind their tryline. Cronje converted his try to take the lead.

The joy was short-lived as the Griffons added a third penalty to go ahead again before being forced to absorb sustained pressure in the closing minutes, but they clung on to head into the half-time break marginally ahead, 9-7, having never allowed the Cell C Sharks to dictate the flow of the game.

The Cell C Sharks showed intent from the first whistle of the second half, securing possession from their kick-off and then hammering away before Yaw Penxe was over in the corner inside the opening two minutes of the game to retake the lead. Cronje pushed his team 14-9 ahead with the touchline conversion.

Two minutes later, the on-fire Cell C Sharks were throwing everything into attack and were rewarded with some enterprising play, James Venter and Dylan Richardson instrumental in the move that was finished off by the remaining member of the loose trio, eighthman Celimpilo Gumede. Cronje made no mistake and the Durban side had raced into a 21-9 lead.

Ntuthuko Mchunu barged huis way over as the game hit the final quarter, a well-worked effort that came off accuracy and intensity and the bonus point was secured. Crucially, the successful conversion pushed the Cell C Sharks into an unassailable 28-9 lead as the Griffons found themselves in deep trouble.

With 10 seconds left on the clock, a frenetic attack paid dividends, the big ball-carrying forwards setting up Nevaldo Fleurs to score the fifth try of the match, Cronje maintaining his 100% kicking record to secure a most satisfying 35-9 victory, one that installs the Cell C Sharks as log leaders at the conclusion of this game.

The post A Tale of Two Halves appeared first on The Sharks.

The Cell C Sharks Under 19s will be looking to get their SA Rugby Under 19 Cup campaign back on track this Friday when they travel to Pretoria to take on the Vodacom Bulls.

Despite going down to Toyota Free State, they remain on target for a home semi-final and a win over the Bulls will go a long way to securing home ground status in the knock-out rounds.

“This last weekend’s match against the Cheetahs was obviously very disappointing, we felt that we were probably the better team on the day but we didn’t take our opportunities while the Cheetahs took theirs,” coach Mike Vowles explains.

“It was one of those games where whatever could go right for the Cheetahs did, and whatever could go wrong for us, did, so although the result was disappointing, we were able to take some positives out of the game, especially the number of opportunities created. But frustrated that we couldn’t convert and get across the line.”

Casting his mind away from the recent past and turning his attention to this week’s massive assignment, Vowles warns that it won’t be any easier for his young charges.

“Matches against the Bulls are always a tough prospect, especially up at Loftus, but we’ve had a good week of preparation, the guys are in a good space, especially given what we potentially could have done against the Cheetahs and there is still so much to play for in the competition.

“We have a plan in place in terms of how we want to play and we just need to be more efficient and accurate in our decision-making to take the opportunities the Bulls give us.

“It’s also another opportunity for us to secure a home semi-final, so there is plenty to play for.”

Friday’s clash at Loftus Versfeld kicks off at 2pm.

Cell C Sharks Under 19s

1. Bradley Stanfliet
2. Ethan Bester
3. Nicholas Snyman
4. Garren Muller
5. Sphephelo Mbonambi
6. Matthew Fick
7. Connor Carson
8. Hugo – Ben Horn
9. Dallyn Beukes
10. Stehan Heymans (Captain)
11. Minenhle Ngcamu
12. Drico Marx
13. Tholithemba Sibisi
14. Somanga Jho
15. Hendrik Pienaar

Replacements
16. Andrew Davis
17. Faasen Laubscher
18. Siyabonga Dube
19. Trent Roux
20. Darren Ruth
21. JP Beyer
22. AJ Knoetze
23. Monde Mkhize

The post A Huge Assignment appeared first on The Sharks.

The Cell C Sharks go into their second round Currie Cup clash against the Novavit Griffons in Welkom on Friday afternoon looking to maintain their grip on a home semi-final as the competition nears the knock-out stages.

Forwards coach Philip Lemmer acknowledges that his charges have been in sterling form of late with the platform laid by the forwards doing much to set up a run of five straight victories in recent past.

“The forwards have put in a lot of hard work, one thing they pride themselves on is being obedient to the call and to the system and we know that amongst the forwards in particular, unity is key.

“If eight guys aren’t doing the same thing at the same time, that’s when you get exposed,” Lemmer explains. “The senior guys have led the way and taken ownership and they make sure that the work we do during the week shows on the weekend. They know that it is their job and responsibility to give the backs the best possible ball.

“So far that’s going well.”

He adds that the focus is on: “Finishing the race to the end and that this week’s game is one we have to do well in. The Griffons, in Welkom, are tough. They beat the Bulls there, Province only just won there, so we acknowledge that it is a difficult game for us.

“It’s important that we do the job well this weekend.”

With the desire to keep the same side intact but also to bolster the depth, head coach Joey Mongalo and had the good fortune of bringing Rohan Janse van Rensburg back into action where he slots in at his familiar inside centre position, while VURC regulars Ntuthuko Mchunu, Vincent Tshituka and Sikhumbuzo Notshe add major firepower off the bench.

Friday’s match kicks off at 3pm.

Cell C Sharks

1. Dian Bleuler
2. Dameon Venter
3. Khutha Mchunu
4. Ockie Barnard
5. Reniel Hugo (c)
6. Dylan Richardson
7. James Venter
8. Celimpilo Gumede
9. Bradley Davids
10. Lionel Cronje
11. Marnus Potgieter
12. Rohan Janse van Rensburg
13. Murray Koster
14. Yaw Penxe
15. Nevaldo Fleurs

Replacements
16. Fez Mbatha
17. Ntuthuko Mchunu
18. Hanro Jacobs
19. Marco de Witt
20. Vincent Tshituka
21. Sikhumbuzo Notshe
22. Tiaan Fourie
23. Aphelele Fassi

The post Seeking a Sixth appeared first on The Sharks.

In comparing his team’s bonus point victory over the log leaders with the previous week’s performance against the Pumas, Cell C Sharks Currie Cup coach Joey Mongalo announced himself very pleased with the team’s performance.

While the Cell C Sharks defeated the Airlink Pumas the previous week, it was not in the manner planned. This victory over Toyota Free State was much more satisfying for the way it was achieved.

“I’m very happy with the win, particularly because we played well for two halves,” the Cell C  Sharks coach admitted after his team’s 35-23 victory at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Friday evening.

“There were ebbs and flows, a typically nuggety type of game with moments where we did really well and other moments where we had to claw our way back.

“Free State are always going to challenge you in the maul and with ball in hand and I thought we dealt with both those threats really well which is very satisfying.”

Weather conditions meant that not only was it important that a kicking game be employed, but also executed clinically and accurately to ensure that his team was able to put pressure on their opponents.

“That’s where credit must go to the kickers for manging that and playing the territory game,” Mongalo said. “The conditions weren’t easy so we have to say congratulations to those guys for the way they led the team in that aspect.”

One of the players entrusted with the kicking duties was Lionel Cronje who delivered a man of the match performance and Mongalo felt the praise was well-deserved.

“We put a lot of pressure on Lionel internally, he drives our game and it’s good for him to get public recognition for all the work he puts in.  He’s a true professional, a guy who leads on and off the field, both with words and actions as well as preparation, so he deserves every bit of credit he receives.

“We are thankful that our general is leading us well.”

With five victories on the trot, the way the team is playing, putting in match-winning performances and bonding so well, is evident that they are on the right track as they grow and grow.

“This is an exciting journey and the beauty of it is that we are probably nowhere near the finished product which is great. Every Monday we come together knowing that there is more in us and we hope that continues for at least the next three weeks and for whatever holds after that.

“It’s a growth mindset, we know we are getting better and there is more in us which excites us.”

The Cell C Sharks’ next challenge takes place in Welkom where the Griffons lie in wait. With just one win in their campaign this year, they will look to start closing out the tournament with some effective performances and a rousing welcome will meet the Durban side on Friday afternoon.

However, taking the focus off themselves is not something Mongalo plans to do. Constant improvement is key and that’s where their ambitions lie.

“The big thing for this week coming is that we don’t worry about who is in front of us but that we focus on how to get better. On how does this team put longer periods of good play together, on how this team defends with more grit and avoid giving away easy tries.  On how this team builds more phases and when they get into the opposition 22, score more.

“We really are going to make it about ourselves and fight to play in a way that is an improvement on the previous week and that makes people proud of us, and makes us proud.”  

The post Winning the Right Way appeared first on The Sharks.

The Cell C Sharks’ ambitions of a Currie Cup home semi-final were boosted with their fifth straight victory, a return leg 35-23 win over visiting Toyota ‘Free State at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Friday evening.

A dominant performance from the Cell C Sharks from start to finish consigned Free State to a second consecutive loss and the bonus point victory means the home side leap-frog the Airlink Pumas – who also suffered back-to-back defeats – to finish the weekend in second position, tie on 38 log points with the log leaders.

A waterlogged pitch, courtesy of unseasonal torrential rain in the preceding 24 hours made life difficult for both sides, but it was the Cell C Sharks who played the conditions better and controlled the game with astute leadership, keeping the scoreboard ticking over and once again showing determined defence that denied Free State the momentum they strived for but never really accomplished.

A Lionel Cronje penalty inside the opening 10 minutes got the scoreboard ticking over after his side had been forced to defend their 22 bravely, without being punished, and then a Free State player, having chirped the referee, saw the penalty marched 10m closer to the tryline and within range of the flyhalf.

Patience was the key in the next score, a determined attack as the ball was taken through 14 phases before a mini break from Henco Venter, a dummy and then great offload to Aphelele Fassi saw the wing over before Cronje added the extras for a 10-0 lead after a quarter hour.

A few minutes later, the Cell C Sharks eighthman was the victim of a clash of heads in the tackle, the visitors reduced to 14 men to add to their woes.

Former Cell C Sharks scrumhalf Ruan Pienaar got his team on the board after 23 minutes of play with a penalty for collapsing the maul, but five minutes later the home side crafted an amazing try, Alwayno Visagie finishing off after the forwards had built dominance at the contact area, Yaw Penxe elusive down the touchline and then a cheeky, but educated chip ahead for the centre to finish off and a 15-3 lead on the half hour.

A second penalty from Cronje stretched the lead to 15 points, but Free State hit back with a strong drive over the line for their opening try and together with the conversion, cut the deficit to eight points with a minute left to play.

After three minutes of extra time, Cronje struck his third penalty to push his team into a 21-10 half-time lead, a thoroughly-deserved advantage, although they would head for the changerooms knowing that they could not rest on their laurels against a competitive Free State side.

The visitors had an early penalty in the second half to restore the eight point margin and then Tiaan Fourie found space from close quarters after Free State had been forced to carry the ball over their tryline under pressure, and the ensuing scrum offered the perfect opportunity to strike, the scrumhalf making no mistake, nor Cronje for a 28-13 lead with 25 minutes remaining.

With the game headed into the final quarter, Free State battled to break some truly amazing defence and when awarded a penalty, opted for the three points rather than the line and possible try, having been thwarted time and again.

With a 12 point gap the Cell C Sharks were in control of the game and a second yellow card, for repeated infringements defending their line, meant Free State were under pressure of conceding the bonus point try. That danger came to pass with seven minutes left on the clock, a third lineout in quick succession and the ensuing maul coming up with the spoils, replacement hooker Dameon Venter in possession. When Cronje converted from the touchline, the 35-16 scoreline was always going to win the game.

Playing for pride, Free State added a second try to their tally, a forward-dominated maul and with the conversion, cutting the lead to 12 points with less than five minutes of this absorbing game remaining.

But they could not add any further score to snatch a late losing bonus point and would have to leave the field knowing that they had been well-beaten.

The post Five in a Row appeared first on The Sharks.

Once more the Cell C Sharks are thrust into a huge Currie Cup clash when they host log leaders Toyota Free State at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Friday evening.

It’s been a case of one massive challenge after the other, but each one faced bravely – and successfully – in the last month, to the point where they are now chasing their fifth straight victory in the competition.

“The win over the Pumas last week keeps momentum and the team vibe up and that psychological stuff matters, it is important,” explains Currie Cup head coach Joey Mongalo.

“It’s also good for the boys to have been in a place where they’ve won a game that looked unlikely, and somewhere in the backend of the season, they may find themselves in a similar position. So the fact that they’ve been there before is a massive thing for the group.”

Looking forward to the Free State game, Mongalo accedes that a good team doesn’t lead the log for no reason, “There’s a reason they lead and that’s because they’re a very good team, one of the better teams who are likely to score from their maul when they get into your 22.

“They’re a team that focuses on position-based attack, so our defence will have to stand up, but we have a proud defensive record, especially at home, so we want to ensure that we match fire with fire. That we match on defence what they bring on attack with the right resources, planning, heart, desire and character from people who really care about this brand and are passionate about it.

“This Currie Cup is unrelenting, so it’s more of the same for us, every week you have the opportunity to keep momentum, or you can lose it and we can’t afford to lose any momentum.”

With reference to team selection, the coach points out that continuity is key. “We’re trying to stick as much as possible with the same group to give those guys an opportunity to improve on their performances last weekend. Any other changes are due to injury, but apart from that, we’re trying to build consistency and momentum for the rest of the competition.”

Friday’s return leg home match kicks off at 7pm.

Cell C Sharks
1. Khwezi Mona
2. Fez Mbatha
3. Carlu Sadie
4. Jeandre Labuschagne
5. Reniel Hugo (c)
6. Dylan Richardson
7. James Venter
8. Henco Venter
9. Tiaan Fourie
10. Lionel Cronje
11. Aphelele Fassi
12. Alwayno Visagie
13. Murray Koster
14. Yaw Penxe
15. Nevaldo Fleurs

Replacements
16. Dameon Venter
17. Dian Bleuler
18. Hanro Jacobs
19. Marco de Witt
20. Sikhumbuzo Notshe
21. Celimpilo Gumede
22. Bradley Davids
23. Marnus Potgieter

The post Huge Clash in Durban appeared first on The Sharks.