sportskeeda
Head Coach John Plumtree has revealed that the Hollywoodbets Sharks squad has been bolstered by the return of several Springboks ahead of Saturday’s Vodacom United Rugby Championship clash against the Vodacom Bulls at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, promising an exhilarating South African derby.
Big inside centre Andre Esterhuizen shares his insights on the team’s current standing as they prepare for this pivotal match.
“Following a hard-fought loss in the EPCR, our primary objective is to bounce back,” he explains. “Training has been fruitful, it’s a local derby, and the Bulls are always a formidable opponent. We are gearing up for a major challenge.”
Esterhuizen recognizes their remarkable recent home performance and stresses the importance of upholding it.
“Winning all your home matches is vital because it eases competition, especially with the travel demands. Securing wins at home implies that any points gained away are merely additional rewards.”
“Durban poses tough conditions for visiting teams, with the weather and humidity playing crucial roles. As a squad, we aim to create a challenging atmosphere for our opponents. We seek to make the game physical and fast-paced; the more we can pressure opposing teams, the higher our chances of achieving success.”
“Winning at home is vital for us and our fans; we want a full stadium as it enhances our performance.”
“Being at home provides us with a considerable advantage, with our supporters energizing us. The atmosphere of a packed crowd is something we truly value. The attendance at our recent matches has been impressive, and we believe we are moving in the right direction.”
This Saturday, the Sharks will face a tough opponent, as the Bulls come to Durban after a defeat in the Investec Champions Cup. Traditionally, they always deliver a formidable challenge.
“Historically, matches against the Bulls are always physically taxing; this north-south derby has consistently been exhilarating to be part of.”
“We anticipate a physical showdown, as both teams are quite familiar with each other.”
Hollywoodbets Sharks
1. Ox Nche
2. Dylan Richardson
3. Vincent Koch
4. Jason Jenkins
5. Emile van Heerden
6. Phepsi Buthelezi
7. Emmanuel Tshituka
8. Siya Kolisi (C)
9. Jaden Hendrikse
10. Jordan Hendrikse
11. Makazole Mapimpi
12. Andre Esterhuizen
13. Ethan Hooker
14. Yaw Penxe
15. Aphelele Fassi
Replacements
16. Ethan Bester
17. Ruan Dreyer
18. Trevor Nyakane
19. Corne Rahl
20. Nick Hatton
21. Cameron Wright
22. Siya Masuku
23. Jurenzo Julius
