How Sharks reap benefits of sticking with Bosch
REACTION: Sharks coach Sean Everitt believes his decision to stick with Curwin Bosch at flyhalf is slowly starting to pay off.
Everitt opted to hand the pivot role to Bosch, despite loads of criticism levelled at the former Junior Springbok.
Bosch delivered a flawless kicking display from the tee (four conversions and three penalties) during the 51-3 win over the Dragons in Durban this past Friday.
The win was a much-needed result for the Sharks, who suffered a 5-21 loss to Edinburgh last week, and certainly a major confidence boost for Bosch.
Last week the 24-year-old copped a lot of flak for his performance against Edinburgh, having missed a conversion and a penalty from just about in front of the poles.
“The poor guy doesn’t get compliments – he just gets ridiculed every week,” Everitt told reporters.
“Last week, he missed a kick in front of the poles and that was a talking point of his poor performance.
“And yes it is his job to kick to poles, however, he managed the game well and his field kicking was outstanding, which is why we picked him this week.
“I’m just happy that he had his kicking boots on and he kicked exceptional well on Friday.”
The coach also emphasised how Bosch improved his previously troubling defence.
“I don’t think people know that Curwin had made 17 out 19 tackled leading into this game and before he was criticised for that.”
Stay humble
The Sharks coach warned his team not to get carried away with a bonus-point win against the Dragons.
The Durban side still has loads of work ahead as they face the Lions next weekend followed by a home match against Leinster.
“It’s important for us to stay humble, but I’m happy for our scoreline because it brings confidence,” he said.
“At the same time, our players know what we need to do and what we need to work on.”
He added: “It’s now about us building momentum; the log is very important at the moment.
“Next week’s match against Lions is big and the other two local franchises [Stormers and Bulls] are playing each other so it is vital regards to the South African Shield.
“Therefore this win is a massive platform for us to build on.”
The South African Shield is highly contested with Sharks, Stormers and Bulls all vying for the top spot, while the Lions’ current form also makes them a threat.
In regards to injuries, Everitt revealed that prop Thomas du Toit took a knock to the leg and he will be assessed.
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