AUDIO: Emotions high ahead of Loftus derby

Derbies are not for the faint of heart.

Add the fact that both teams, the Bulls and Sharks, are in a desperate struggle to stay in the play-off race, and it has all the ingredients for a thriller.

The Sharks are currently eighth on the standings, the last quarterfinal spot, with 23 points and six matches remaining.

The Bulls are three places (and three points) behind, also with six games remaining.

The Lions (second overall, on 31 points – five matches remaining) and the Jaguares (seventh, 24 – five matches remaining) are the teams ahead of the in the South African conference.

The Sharks come into this match with a measure of confidence, having beaten the Stormers and Highlanders either side of a bye.

However, Du Preez said they will face a fierce challenge from a Bulls team on the rise.

"This is going to be a huge battle, South African derbies are never easy," the Sharks No.8 said, adding: "There will be a lot of emotion.

"The guys remember the game against the Bulls a few weeks ago and I think the Bulls will be hurting from last week [a loss to the Stormers].

He felt that the game is going to be won and lost up front.

"The set-piece battle is going to be huge and a big decider on which way the game goes.

"If you win the physical battle, then half the war is won.

"It's something we work hard on every week and something we pride ourselves on."

@rugby365com

* Watch the Sharks' pre-match media briefing!