Sharks out to demolish Stormers wall
The Sharks have gathered some good momentum in the last three weeks, but they know that their accuracy and composure will be put to the test against a clinical Stormers side this weekend.
Their coastal rivals have played with far greater consistency this season and currently sit on the top of the Super Rugby standings, but the Cape outfit have come in for some criticism for being unable to put any of their opponents away completely, which is something that the Sharks have proven themselves to be more than capable of.
John Plumtree's team have been more erratic than the disciplined Stormers, but have also been devastating at times on attack, and have hit their stride nicely with a number of key players coming back into the frame recently, which should all make for a fascinating contest.
Plumtree admitted that the victory over the Cheetahs last week has boosted confidence levels in his squad significantly, especially as they showed an impressive cutting edge on attack to earn a four-try bonus point – something that has eluded the Stormers all season.
He said: "That was definitely a pass mark. Every time we go up to Bloemfontein and win is really good for us, it's a tough fixture for us, and I thought the boys played some lovely rugby.
"To get five points up there is outstanding. Defensively, we let ourselves down a bit at times, but there was some really good attacking play."
The Sharks coach said that while it is encouraging that his team seems to be peaking at the right time it is important for them to remain focused so that they can convert the momentum into another victory.
"Everyone is talking about that, but at the end of the day, each challenge is different, we have to make sure we remain focused on each week. Our preparation has been good so far this week and we're just looking forward to this one on the weekend.
"We've focused on the five games leading into the break and played three of them and have two to go and we're looking good. But as I said, each challenge is so different," he explained.
Plumtree has high regard for what the Stormers have achieved this season, and made it clear that the major challenge for his team will be to play with enough discipline and accuracy to allow their gamebreakers to make a telling impact against a side that has still lost just one game this year.
"They're [Stormers] top of the log, an outstanding side and very clinical in what they do. They have enjoyed a lot of continuity in selection and they're a very efficient outfit, so we know that we're going to have to play very well to beat them on the weekend.
"They've picked up some criticism for not scoring a lot of tries, but all they're focused on is winning and how they do it doesn't really matter – as long as they do it.
"I guess they'll be looking at improving their processes just like we do and every other team does. We know we have to play well to win this game and to score tries against their defence, it's going to take a big effort," said Plumtree.
