Du Preez: We got to set the standard

The Sharks scored five tries to win 33-10 in Nelspruit last Friday, but Du Preez wants his team to shift to a higher gear ahead of their first home game of the tournament

"That is really important – we got to set the standard," Du Preez told reporters in Durban on Monday.  

"We started well now, but we got to improve. I remember from my playing days, this [Kings Park] was always a difficult place to come and play and we want to play well, so that we can attract the fans back to the stadium.

"They [Griquas] are a very tough side and it will be very physical. We are going to have to bring our A-game to beat them."

Curwin Bosch, Lukhanyo Am and Inny-Christian Radebe were some of the youngsters that were on display against the Pumas and Du Preez was pleased with their performances.

"I thought the youngsters came through fine. It is still a long road ahead, but I was happy with them. 

"The Pumas in Nelspruit is a tough challenge. It was really a tough game. At half-time you could see the guys were in a game, so it was not easy and I am pleased with that," he added.

One player, the Sharks won't be able to call on for the Griquas clash is prop Lourens Adriaanse.

Adriaanse was called up to the Springbok squad in place of the injured Trevor Nyakane ahead of this year's Rugby Championship.

"Lourens is a special tighthead prop in that old school way, which I like a lot and he fully deserves the Springbok call-up. 

"That is what we want. We want to create future Springboks out of the Sharks. That is why we are here," said du Preez.

@rugby365com