Coach Sean Everitt praised his Sharks team for their resilience in earning a key victory over Griquas on Friday night.
The Sharks required a late penalty from Curwin Bosch to come out on top having completed a comeback from 27-13 down deep in the second half to win 34-33.
Coach impressed with Sharks never-say-die attitude
Everitt was impressed with the way his team held their nerve during the comeback to earn an away win that keeps the pressure on Super Rugby Unlocked log leaders, the Bulls.
“We are very happy with the win,” Everitt said. “It is not something you get easily in Kimberley and this match was an example of that.
“At 27-13 down, we were staring down the barrel with 20 minutes to go, so I thought the guys did really well to stick to the processes and eventually claw their way back into the game.
“And then at 31-30 we were on top but unfortunately some poor game management saw us playing rugby in our own half and giving away a penalty.”
Bosch nailed a fifty-metre penalty goal to give the Sharks victory and delighting his coach with his cool display.
“I am very proud of Curwin for his BMT — the way he is kicking at the moment is superb,” Everitt added.
Set-pieces need work
There is no doubt that the Sharks are a dangerous team with ball in hand but they have struggled in set-pieces throughout Super Rugby Unlocked which is a concern for Everitt.
“We had made huge improvements over the last few weeks (in the set pieces) but unfortunately it didn’t go our way in that department tonight,” Everitt added.
“We must also remember that Griquas are a desperate team.
“They ran the Bulls close — they could have won that game. And against us they were outstanding. They can be proud of themselves for the commitment they showed on defence.
“Scott Mathie has done a good coaching job, and sometimes you feel for the opposition, but I am proud of my team for the way they fought back.”
The Sharks can claim the Super Rugby Unlocked title in the final weekend but will need the Pumas to take points off of the Bulls in order to do it.
On the log standings, the Bulls sport a two-point lead over the Sharks and the Stormers who will meet in the final match of the tournament.
There is more for everyone to play for with the Super Rugby Unlocked standings carrying over to the Currie Cup.
