Sharks in a frenzy after break
Mon, 25 Aug 2008 10:23
There's nothing like a two-week break from action to get the Sharks into a frenzy. And the men from Durban showed their keenness to get back on the paddock as they hit the ground running in preparation for their next outing - against Boland in Wellington on Friday.
Having enjoyed a week's rest after their impressive 32-10 demolition of Western Province at Newlands just over a fortnight ago, the Sharks got some hard work under their belts last week as they head into the business end of the competition.
Captain Johann Muller admits that despite the effect the break would have on continuity, it was a welcome respite from the weekly punishment meted out to the players' bodies.
"The break came at a perfect time for us," Muller said in an interview on the Sharks website.
"It's been quite tough over the past eight weeks, playing week in and week out which is always tough on the body, it's great to have had a break.
"We had a whole week off and then started training last week again and you could see that the guys are really keen and fired up. They want to do well and train hard again. So the break did come at a great time for us, there were also one or two little injuries that the guys were getting over so the break has been really fantastic in that respect."
The coaching staff should have just about a full squad to choose from to select a team for the Boland encounter which is an important away match that the Sharks need to win to remain in contention for the play-offs in October.
Muller said the team would be looking to pick up where they left off - having secured bonus-point victories over Griquas and Western Province in their last two outings.
"The break came at a time when we were really playing well," Muller said, adding: "but we did need it and at this stage we just need to maintain confidence and keep playing the kind of rugby we have been playing.
"Rugby is a confidence game. After the win against the Lions - and that's a good side who beat the Bulls up at Loftus - and great wins against Griquas and Province, the confidence is up, the boys are really keen and looking forward to the rest of the competition."
He admits that there will be no taking this week's game or opposition lightly. Boland might be second-last on the log, but there is no doubt that they will be up for this match.
"Absolutely, there is no underestimating them," said the Sharks Captain. "They are a really good side, especially at home. The Cheetahs only beat them 15-10, the Bulls only scored 25 or 26 points against them down there, the field is heavy and wet and will take us out of our comfort zone, so we are going to have to play really well to beat them down there and to get the points we need so badly."
