Sharks cautious of 'desperate' Ulstermen

SPOTLIGHT: World Cup-winning Springbok Andre Esterhuizen said Ulster will be ‘desperate’ when the two sides meet in Belfast in a United Rugby Championship URC face-off.

The Sharks arrived in Belfast on Sunday and started preparations for their outing at Ravenhill Stadium on Saturday.

Fourth on the standings with 49 points, the Sharks are on the brink of joining runaway leaders Leinster (67 points), Glasgow Warriors (58) and the Bulls (54) in the play-offs.

“Training has been good,” Esterhuizen said, adding: “The boys look focused.”

The Bok midfield giant said they expect a ‘desperate’ Irish province, who are 10th on the URC standings and with just three rounds remaining and can’t afford to lose any more ground on the top eight.

Esterhuizen said the departure of several big-name stars at the end of the season makes this the last home game for season players like John Cooney (154 games), Alan O’Connor (210), Matty Rea (111), Kieran Treadwell (177) and Andrew Warwick (209).

“It is going to be a hard and physical game,” the 31-year-old centre said.

“They are a great attacking side, so our defence will have to be on point.”

He added that they should be clinical and take all their chances to end the tour on a successful note.

Saturday’s fixture will be the last home game for eight players who are departing at the end of the season.

Ulster General Manager Bryn Cunningham thanks the departing players for their dedication and commitment to the province.

Cunningham paid specific tribute to five of Ulster’s longest-serving players who are set to depart after years of service.

“I think supporters will join me in thanking Al, Andy, Kieran, John and Matty for their time at Ulster,” Cunningham said.

“Between them, they have amassed over 850 caps in the jersey and will leave behind some big shoes to fill.

“Al and Waz have been superb role models in the way they go about their work with a no-nonsense attitude and total commitment to the jersey over the years.

“Both players hit the milestone of reaching over 200 caps for Ulster earlier this season, becoming members of that special club.

“John and Treaders made a huge impact on the senior team since joining us and made every Ulster supporter proud when they went on to represent Ireland on international duty. I know John will miss the chants of ‘Cooney’ ringing round Ravenhill!

“Matty has given his all for the shirt since he joined after impressing in the AIL with Ballymena, and like the others mentioned, he can be incredibly proud of his contributions over the years while finishing his time strongly this season.”