Sharks coach Robert Du Preez has praised his side’s complete performance following Saturday’s 22-10 win over the Stormers at Kings Park.
The Sharks dominated all facets of play and outscored the visitors by three tries to one with the result meaning they have now all but secured the wildcard play-off spot in the South African Group.
Furthermore, the Sharks will avoid a probable quarter-final with the Crusaders who are likely to finish top of the combined log should they finish ahead of the Chiefs or Highlanders, whom they are only three points behind.
“The guys were fantastic today. That was good. On both attack and defence the intent was fantastic,” Du Preez said after the match.
“Every time we had the ball in hand we kept it and got over the gain line. We were a lot more clinical.”
The Sharks had flirted with a bonus point, but in the end fell one try short.
“To win is more important than the bonus point. If there was a bonus point it would have been great, but we’re happy with the win,” said Du Preez.
The Sharks raced ahead 15-0 in the first half but the Stormers pulled it back to 15-10 after a strong start to the second half.
But a piece of magic from rookie Sibusiso Nkosi, who has burst onto the Super Rugby stage in recent weeks, ensured the Sharks closed it out at 22-10.
Making special mention of Nkosi, Du Preez said: “He was really good tonight. His work-rate is just unbelievable and he’s got a big future ahead of him.”
The Sharks have a well-deserved bye next weekend and then it’s time for the international break which means they will have five weeks off before they face the Bulls on June 30. They close off their Super Rugby log fixtures against the Lions the following weekend.
And Du Preez believes the break has come at just the right time.
“This is a typical South African derby so I think the guys really went out to go play. We had something to prove,” he said.
“We’ve been on the go for 13 games in a row so it’s good that the guys can have a break now.”
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