VIDEO: 'The Sharks' best performance'
The Sharks, rejuvenated from a bye week, outscored the New Zealand side five tries to two for the impressive 38-12 bonus-point win.
Thus far, the Sharks have arguably produced their best performances against the Kiwi oppositions and the recent victory over the Highlander proved what Robert du Preez's men can create.
The Durban-based side dominated proceeding from the outset. They broke the Highlanders' defence in less than a minute when Armand van der Merwe outpaced the defence for a try.
They added another try courtesy of Makazole Mapimpi and went 14-0 up after just 10 minutes of play
While, Daniel du Preez, Sibusiso Nkosi, and Robert du Preez Jnr completed the try-scoring count.
Although happy with their rugby display, the Sharks coach Du Preez revealed that they could have been more patient on attack.
"Probably one of the best Sharks performance I've seen in years," Robert du Preez told reporters after the match.
"This team have a lot more to offer. I know we left quite a few tries out there, maybe three or four more. When the team are patient, they do great things. There were a couple of times when we were throwing 50/50 passes – could have been more patient.
"But what a fantastic performance from every single one of the players," he added.
The bonus-point win means that the Sharks are now sitting third on the South African conference and eight on the overall log.
The result puts the side right back into play-off contention.
"The bonus-point win was a big bonus. We would have been happy with just a win. Now, we just have to keep on working hard and keep improving,"
"This is tough competition. Think we had eight games in a row and four weeks on tour so the break was great. The guys came back energized and I have to commend them on their individual work,"
In terms of injuries, Philip van der Walt injured his jaw but the coach revealed the flank will be fine.
The Sharks face another massive challenge against the Bulls at Loftus on Saturday.
@rugby365com
