VIDEO: ‘It’s not the end of the world’ says Sharks boss

REACTION: Losing to the new-look Bulls squad under Jake White is not the ‘end of the world’ believes Sharks coach Sean Everitt.

The Sharks suffered 28-49 defeat to the Bulls on Saturday thanks to the Pretoria side’s powerful pack and backline flair.

The Durban side were overwhelmed as the Bulls built up a 35-7 lead at halftime.

“The scoreline is obviously not what we wanted,” the Sharks coach Everitt told reporters via a virtual press conference.

“The second thing is we wanted to play the game for turnovers that’s why we opted for contestable kicks, unfortunately, we didn’t gather three of those and cost us three tries.

“However, those are the type of stuff we can work on so it’s not the end of the world as far as that’s a concern,”

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Prior to COVID-19 enforced lockdown, Sharks were in a much better form – sitting at the top of the overall Super Rugby standings.

The Durban side secured six wins from their seven games and were among the frontrunners to win the Super Rugby trophy.

However, following a seven-month break with an additional long injury list, the Sharks were a far cry from their attacking flair self on Saturday, which in some manner were expected under the circumstances.

The side conceded five converted tries in the first half tries and only got on the scoreboard after the half-time hooter had sounded.

They were much better in the second half with replacements like Grant Williams, Jaden Hendrikse and Marius Louw producing a noteworthy display.

Hendrikse and Louw got their names on the scoreboard.

“The team in the second half played exceptionally well, and we put the Bulls under pressure with the style of rugby we want to play,” the coach revealed.

“Having said that when you play risky rugby sometimes things does not go your way, but the pleasing aspect is that our set piece went well and credit has to go to the Bulls.

He added: “The Bulls’ breakdown work was outstanding in the first half and we battle to adjust to that, hopefully, we can learn from this and will be ready when the domestic season starts,”

The Sharks kick-off their Currie Cup campaign against the Lions on October 10.

In terms of injury, the coach revealed that Aphelele Fassi will be sidelined for three to four months following surgery on his shoulder.

While Shaun Venter, Henco Venter and Madosha Tambwe is expected to recover in time and could be up for selection for the season opener.

@rugby365com