Continuity for the Cell C Sharks

DUST off your rugby jerseys, folks. Fans are gearing up for the first VODACOM SUPER RUGBY  home game on Saturday.

Match Details – Cell C Sharks vs. Waratahs

The head coach, Robert du Preez has stuck with the team that did duty against the Brumbies last week, naming an unchanged matchday 23 to take on the visiting Waratahs at Growthpoint KINGS PARK on Saturday evening.

Keeping faith in last week’s team that heroically snatched victory when a draw seemed likely, du Preez has decided against tinkering with his side.

And why not? As the old saying goes, don’t fix what ain’t broke and certainly there was nothing resembling a team broken after their victory against the Brumbies.  Quite the opposite – a team absolutely jubilant at the outcome, one they had manufactured of their own ability, and completed thanks to self-belief.

The other factor involved in maintaining the same line-up for consecutive weeks suggests that it’s a real opportunity to forge already blossoming partnerships.  The pack and its units – the front row, tight five and loose forward trio – are putting in spirited performances, while the backline is finding its feet nicely.

The other ‘nicety’ about keeping the team intact is the fact that there were no injuries to come out of the last game.

Lukhanyo Am who scored the match-winning try last week says this one is all about the fans.

“It’s our first home game and we’d like to do it for the fans.”

“The effort from the guys to pull of the win last week was fantastic and showed the character and fighting spirit amongst this special group of players.  That win has definitely motivated us, however it is important that we build on that momentum this week,”said Du Preez.

“We arrived back home on Sunday night and despite the jet lag, there has been no excuses from the guys.  As a coaching unit we cannot fault their commitment and work ethic, which has been amazing.

“The Waratahs will want to end their tour on a high and will be a difficult prospect on Saturday.  We are looking forward to playing at home and the support and backing of our fans will give us added motivation.”

The Cell C Sharks
15. Clement Poitrenaud
14. Kobus van Wyk
13. Lukhanyo Am
12. Andre Esterhuizen
11. Lwazi Mvovo
10. Patrick Lambie (c)
9. Cobus Reinach
8. Tera Mtembu (v/c)
7. Jean-Luc du Preez
6. Philip van der Walt
5. Ruan Botha
4. Stephan Lewies
3. Coenie Oosthuizen
2. Franco Marais
1. Tendai Mtawarira

Replacements
16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. Thomas du Toit
18. Lourens Adriaanse
19. Jean Droste
20. Jacques Vermeulen
21. Michael Claassens
22. Jeremy Ward
23. Curwin Bosch

Interesting Facts

• The last five meetings between these two teams have been won by the home side;
• The Cell C Sharks have slotted nine penalty goals so far this season, more than any other team in the competition;
• The last time that these two teams played at Growthpoint KINGS PARK (2014) the Cell C Sharks won 32 -10;
• After the completion of round 2, Ruan Botha leads the pack for the most lineouts won (16).  This stat includes steals.

*Credit: Opta Data

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