Cheetahs get their claws out

 

After two consecutive losses, the Durban outfit is lying fourth on the points log, while the Cheetahs are in fifth place, two points behind them.

 

For Cheetahs' coach Rory Duncan it is a chance to leap-frog the defending champions who have stuttered on both the log and in terms of momentum.

 

"The Sharks' current lack of form and their two losses is positive in the sense that we can use their lack of momentum against them, and in the process better our position," Duncan said.

 

However, Duncan is not ready to be too cavalier  with the wounded Sharks who he has some personal insight into.

 

"On the other hand, it can also be negative for us, because it will motivate them more. I know the Sharks, as I have played there myself. Brad McLeod-Henderson [Sharks coach] will be pushing his guys to collect a win against us."

 

The Cheetahs have made a number of changes to their back line, hoping fullback Rayno Benjamin and wing JP du Plessis will add spice to their attack.

 

"Rayno is a very special player who has played a lot of sevens rugby. 

 

"He is going to add another dimension to our attacks from the back," assistant coach Franco Smith added.

 

"JP is fairly unknown and that plays into our hands. His opposite player, Tonderai Chavanga, sometimes struggles on defence and we hope JP can challenge him on the attack. 

 

"He is a big boy with quick feet and good running lines. We are looking for a good performance from him."