SA teams in URC: 'We have to stick together'
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: It was a case of patriotism during Round Three of the United Rugby Championship.
Amazing scenes followed the Bulls’ 29-19 win over Cardiff Blues in Wales.
The Sharks, fresh from their maiden URC win over Ospyres on Friday, were very vocal as they showed support for their fellow South Africans at Arms Park on Saturday.
Sharks and Bulls have been the in-form South African franchises in the last few years.
The two teams contested the Super Rugby Unlocked Final and back-to-back Currie Cup finals, where the Bulls were victorious on all three occasions.
At the weekend, the Sharks and Bulls celebrated wins in Wales, while the Stormers played to a 20-all draw against Edinburgh and the Lions came close during their 9-13 defeat against Glasgow Warriors.
The Round three results are a much better performance by the South African sides, who have been heavily criticized by the media.
Thank you to the Cell C Sharks for coming out to support us 🔥 We both gave South Africa something to cheer about 🇿🇦#TrueToTheBlue pic.twitter.com/znDqo3N1WW
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) October 9, 2021
Speaking to reporters, Sharks scrumhalf Ruan Pienaar revealed the negative criticism from the European media fuelled their decision to support the Bulls.
Pienaar admitted it was also an opportunity to experience the famous Arms Park atmosphere before their Round Four match against Cardiff.
“Going to the game to support the Bulls was not planned,” Pienaar said.
“There were a few guys who wanted to watch the game. Obviously, with us having to play Cardiff this weekend it gives you a little insight.
“It was nice to see the game live and start planning ahead for the coming weekend.”
He added: “There has been a lot of media over here about South Africa struggling in the competition.
“However I think we got the ball rolling with the win against the Ospreys, the Lions went close and the Stormers did really well and with the Bulls.
“We just felt like we, as South Africans, need to support each other.
“Speaking to some of the Bulls players after the match, they appreciated it.
“Think we have to stick together and support each other.”
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@rugby365com
The team got a crash course in Welsh lingo ahead of their tour 🏴#TacklingNewShores #OurSharksForever #URC pic.twitter.com/zEvsULFqrG
— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) October 7, 2021
