Plumtree identifies Sharks' Achilles heel

Sharks coach John Plumtree singled out ‘not being clinical enough’ as the main reason for their 10-38 loss to Benetton in the United Rugby Championship at the weekend.

Plumtree lamented his side’s inability to finish off opportunities when they worked themselves into Benetton’s red zone.

He pointed out that the Sharks weren’t clinical enough and that this issue needs to be addressed soon.

“We weren’t good enough tonight [Saturday], we had too many unforced errors at crucial times – particularly in their 22-metre area when we had opportunities to build pressure.” Said Plumtree.

“Particularly in the second half we had territory and possession and weren’t clinical enough.

“It’s something we’re going to have to look at, we were nowhere near ruthless enough.” He added.

Despite his side’s shortcomings in the match, he also praised Benetton’s attitude on defence and felt that the Sharks worked hard but that soft individual moments cost them.

“I thought Treviso’s [Benetton] defence was outstanding, they scrambled well, they got off the line and put pressure on us and we didn’t handle that well.

“I don’t think there was any lack of trying, I think we were working hard, but it was just individuals…some defensive lapses and just not a clinical enough performance.”

Plumtree mentioned the time away from home the Sharks had spent and that they’re looking forward to returning to Durban and playing at Kings Park again.

“We’re all just looking forward to getting home now, we’ve been away for around five weeks if you think about the Currie Cup as well.” Said Plumtree

“We’re just all looking forward to getting home with the families and reconnecting with everyone back there and looking forward to having a home game.” He concluded.