Powell rediscovers Sharks' Mr. Reliable
REACTION: Sharks finally have a flyhalf they can rely on reveals Director of Rugby Niel Powell.
The Sharks return to winning ways with an assertive 29-7 win over the Lions in the Round 14 clash at Ellis Park on Saturday.
Following their Round 13 defeat to the Stormers, the Sharks headed into the match under loads of pressure which was evident in their slow start.
However, steered by flyhalf Curwin Bosch they stepped up in the second half and scored four tries for the bonus-point win – extending their winning streak over South African rivals the Lions.
The 25-year-old produced arguably one of his best performances of the season.
Bosch, who usually cops a lot of criticism for Sharks’ mishaps, scored 14 points of his team’s tally, including a try. He also created a try in the second half.
“He [Bosch] has done well this season already and in the second half he showed how he can manage the game with his boot,” Powell told reporters after the match.
“He puts good performances together.
“It is really great if you can rely on your 10 to manage the game as he has done in the second half.
“So it is great to have him.”
#URC REPORT: Things just went from bad to worse for the Lions in the United Rugby Championship 👇#URC #Lions #Sharks #LIOvSHA https://t.co/ca39GKwpti
— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) February 18, 2023
Playoff quest
The victory increased the Sharks’ chances of reaching the playoffs as they moved up to the seventh spot on the overall URC log.
“I’m very happy with the result [the bonus-point win],” Powell told reporters after the match.
“I think we missed a few five points, particularly in Durban where we came close to scoring a fourth try, but I am happy we managed to do it in this game.
“It is really important to take that momentum to the next game.”
The Durbantines, who have been blowing hot and cold, face a very difficult task in the shape of Ulster next week at Kings Park in Durban.
“We were not as clinical as we would have loved,” Powell admitted.
“There is a lot of stuff that we haven’t done well like decision making, sometimes we lacked a bit of effort.
“Therefore will definitely look to make a step up against Ulster and get a positive result there next week as well.”
