Sharks prepare for Bullish attack

It may have been a better attacking display from the Sharks last week, but they are well aware of the need to improve their defensive game against a Bulls team that knows their way to the try line.

It was a far more exciting performance from the traveling Sharks at Ellis Park this past Saturday, as they looked to run the ball and keep it alive in attack.

However, a few costly errors on defence allowed the Lions to pierce their line and make breaks with ease – as well as run in a few soft tries.

This week, the focus for the players has been about shoring up the defence, and eliminating those individual errors.

Sharks flank, and one of the standout players this season, Renaldo Bothma, did not mince words when asked about the Sharks' recent defensive efforts.

"I think our defence let us down [against the Lions and Crusaders]," Bothma said.

"It is something we are working on this week, especially building up to the game against the Bulls.

"It’s definitely going to be a physical battle out there for us, but we are ready for them."

When asked further what it was that disappointed the Sharks on defence, he pinpointed a few silly errors – but did not lay blame on any one in particular.

"I think it comes down to individual errors," he continued.

"We all made mistakes on the day, and defence is something we pride ourselves on, so this weekend will be a step up for us.

"But that’s what cost us the game [against the Lions]."

Another Sharks player, wing Sibusiso Sithole, echoed his teammate's sentiments about the need for a step up in defence – especially against a Bulls team that scored six tries against the Reds last week.

"The last two games we have noticed that our defence has been a let down," Sithole added.

"We are concentrating hard on it, and we know the Bulls are going to bring it this weekend – whether they kick, or run the ball.

"So we have to have our defence on point, regardless."

By Darryn Pollock