Preview: The Cell C Sharks vs EP Kings:
The Cell C Sharks host the EP Kings at Growthpoint KINGS PARK on Saturday in a Currie Cup match they know has vital importance riding on it as the chase for final log positions hots-up.
The clash is missing some key personnel, out injured, and there have been a number of changes to the side, which Head Coach Robert du Preez emphasises: “Are rotational, no-one has been dropped.
And he adds that, “Regardless of who we were playing this weekend, we would have rotated the guys.”
The Cell C Sharks have a bye next weekend and will want to go into the break on a high. One player who is no doubt excited to be back in action is Patrick Lambie.
“Pat is ready to go, he’s had a great two weeks, this week in particular, so we’re very pleased, pleased for him and pleased for us. It’s great for him to get some game time.”
Du Preez confirmed that Pat Lambie will be providing cover at flyhalf.
“He’s ready, he’ll definitely get some game time on Saturday and we’ll just see how he goes, but taking it week by week.”
While many onlookers might have the expectation of a Cell C Sharks victory, considering their log position, win record and the fact that EP are bottom of the log, but du Preez warns that there can be no taking any opposition lightly.
“This is obviously a very important game for us, one we’re taking very seriously. We know what EP did against the Bulls up at Loftus, that game was in the balance right up to the end, so we aren’t taking them lightly, at all.
“Having said that, we need to hit our straps in this game. We need to make sure that we use our opportunities, execution is going to be vital.”
One area that du Preez will be keeping a keen eye on is at scrum-time, following the tough encounter against Free State last weekend.
“I’ll be watching the set-pieces in general, but our scrums in particular. We would have learned a lot from last week.”
He also warned that EP are going to be no push-overs.
“They play with a lot of passion, they have a very good coach, it’s going to be a tough game.”
The importance riding on this game cannot be overstated. A win, before the bye, giving injured players time to get back before the Cell C Sharks return to action in two weeks’ time [against the Golden Lions in Johannesburg], would put them in a strong position to contest for a home semi-final.
Keegan Daniel, Stephan Lewies and Philip van der Walt will hopefully all be available then.
The post Preview: The Cell C Sharks vs EP Kings appeared first on Sharks Rugby.
Full article here: Sharks Rugby – sbuki1030
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