When the Cell C Sharks host the Vodacom Bulls at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Friday afternoon at 15:30 (SA Time), it will be a great opportunity to further grow and develop a cohesive unit.
Last week’s defeat of the Airlink Pumas was a huge statement of intent and the Cell C Sharks will be hoping to produce another performance that brings back-to-back victories.
“We’re very proud of the group for the composure, character and fight they showed against the Pumas, especially when we were down to 13 men,” Currie Cup head coach Joey Mongalo said in the build-up to the big derby.
“That’s a good sign of a group that’s growing the cohesion and connection we’ve spoken about.”
After suffering successive losses in the opening stages of their campaign, the Bulls struck back last week, defeating Griquas in their first victory of the tournament and they will bring the confidence they gained down to Durban on Friday.
“The Currie Cup doesn’t get any easier, the Bulls come off a very good win, no one is going to do you any favours, it’s not going to be easy and we’re expecting a tough encounter.
“In the same breath, we’ve done really well at home and we want to keep performing in a way that the fans who come out to support us will be proud of us and see a Sharks brand where guys are willing to fight for the jersey; that’s a really, really big thing for us and something we pride ourselves in.
“We want our fans to see a team that’s desperate to fight, desperate to represent this proud union.
“What we’re looking for is a repeat performance and to build some momentum so we can get a couple of wins in a row which will be massive for the belief and confidence in this group.
“There’s no greater opportunity than facing the Bulls at home and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
Mongalo has shown his faith in Reniel Hugo who continues to lead the team for this clash with Murray Koster named as his deputy.
Cell C Sharks: 1. Dian Bleuler, 2. Dan Jooste, 3. Hanro Jacobs, 4. Corne Rahl, 5. Reniel Hugo (c), 6. Tinotenda Mavesere, 7. Ockie Barnard, 8. James Venter, 9. Bradley Davids, 10. Fred Zeilinga, 11. Yaw Penxe, 12. Murray Koster, 13. Josh Jonas, 14. Phikolomzi Sobahle, 15. Nevaldo Fleurs. Replacements: 16. Fez Mbatha, 17. Khwezi Mona, 18. Khutha Mchunu, 19. Athi Khethani, 20. Mpilo Gumede, 21. Tiaan Fourie, 22. Lionel Cronje, 23. Zee Mkhabela.