Today’s Vodacom United Rugby Championship derby clash with the Lions at Ellis Park Stadium has the potential to set the Hollywoodbets Sharks up nicely at a crucial juncture in the tournament.
A win will secure the SA Shield, for two consecutive years, while the log points will also help in the team’s quest for a top eight finish and a place in the play-offs.
For coach JP Pietersen, the lead-up to this game has been a productive one, from back-to-back home-and-away wins and then some time off to refresh, to preparing for this big derby clash.
“Prep has gone well this week, the boys got stuck in and after the two good wins against the DHL Stormers, we had a good break to refresh after those two physical games,” he explained.
“It’s an exciting challenge for us. As a team, we haven’t had the best results up there and we are aware of that, but it’s something we can turn around.
“The main focus has been on ourselves and how we can get better, improve under pressure and start games better.”
With Springbok resting protocols dictating a rejigging of the team, he pointed out that this was an opportunity to gauge the progression of the squad in recent months.
“It gives you the opportunity to see if the other players in the squad have transitioned from juniors to seniors, or to see if there’s improvement in the seniors.
“It’s a great opportunity for some guys to put their hand up, there are some positions we want to see the talent we have. We know what we have with Andre [Esterhuizen], for example.
“I want Jurenzo Julius to be closer to the ball and to see the moments and battles he can win at 12. He has played there for us before, we talk about his explosiveness and how strong he is in contact and we want to see him touch the ball more in the game. The more touches, the better for the team and for him because he is so powerful and possess so much pace.
“We also want to have a look at [former Hilton College eighthman] Thomas Dyer who will be up against a good Lions’ trio. Nick Hatton has a small niggle and Thomas was always in the mix. It’s a great challenge for him to see how he can execute his skillset under pressure in a fast game at altitude. He’s more than capable enough to perform, he’s been in the system in a long time, he was with the team that won the Under 20 comp and he led well.
“I’m excited for him and to see him showcase what he’s been working on.”
Giving young players an opportunity to shine is part of Pietersen’s rugby philosophy, so too the emphasis on enjoyment.
“As rugby players, we’re passionate about the game and it’s all about getting the balance between enjoyment and the technical side,” he explained.
“If you can bring passion and enjoyment to your game, that brings out the best in the player.
“If you go out there stressed out, it’s quite intense, so enjoyment is an important mindset.”