Du Preez seeks accuracy from the Sharks
The win at the weekend made sure the table-toppers booked a home semifinal, and if successful, is guaranteed a home final.
Sharks have shown tremendous improvement since their opening defeat to the Free State Cheetahs and round one. Friday’s win was their 10th consecutive Currie Cup victory, which is good news for Durbanites who last hoisted the Currie Cup trophy back in 2013.
The hosts scored two tries to one in a match that was temporarily halted by referee Stuart Barry due to thunder and lightning.
The Sharks had an 11-0 lead before the pause and continued to get valuable possession in great spaces thanks to Curwin Bosch's tactical kicking.
"I think our game management improved since [ our 18-5 win over the Blue Bulls in similar conditions]," Sharks coach Du Preez said, adding: "The boys stuck to the plan and I am pleased with that.
"[Another positive is the amount of] scoring opportunities we created. I think we had like fourteen entries into the oppositions’ 22 but weren’t as accurate as we wanted to be – that is certainly something to work one.
"The conditions were quite tough and were difficult with the wet ball, but I am extremely happy with our ball retention.
"But like mentioned – just our inability to covert when we in the oppositions’ 22 is a [concern].
"I think when we have teams against the robes we have to finish them off,"
The Sharks’ defence kept the Golden Lions at but eventually folded in the last minute when wing Anthony Volmink scored the oppositions’ only try.
"The defence coach would be unhappy because we conceded a try in the end, but I think it was a very good defensive effort.
"Our pressure on attack and defence made it really difficult for the [Golden] Lions to get momentum,"
The Sharks have a bye before they take on the Western Province in the last round-robin phase.
By Leezil Hendricks
@Leezil07
@rugby365com
