Sharks surround Siya Kolisi says his team is wary of Ulster but is confident they can match the Irish side this weekend in the United Rugby Championship (URC).
The Sharks won their third URC game last week, defeating the Glasglow Warriors 40-12 at Kings Park.
And this weekend, the Durban franchise hosts Ulster on Saturday, with a focus on Springbok teammate Duane Vermeulen’s participation.
The Irish team is one of the best in the competition, and their second place on the log demonstrates the threat they pose.
Kolisi says his team will target the set-piece battle as one in which they want to excel.
“The set-piece will be crucial because Ulster have a strong pack and use their maul effectively,” Kolisi told the club’s official website.
“They also target the scrum as a place to force penalties, which is something we want to improve.” Last week, we gave up one penalty, received one back, and earned a tighthead, so we’ll need to be particularly strong in the scrums and mauls. Their loose forwards are also very good at the breakdown.
“In general, they’re a gain line team looking to cross the gain line, so the contact area will be important.”
“But we also have a good pack, experienced guys who know they have to show up every weekend.” We know there’s nowhere to hide, so we have to go all in, and each of us has to make sure he’s up for the challenge and sets the standard from the start.”
Following the conclusion of the Rugby Championship, the Sharks welcomed back several of their Springbok stars for the Glasgow game.
Kolisi admitted that it was simply about being on the field and doing his job alongside his fellow Boks.
“After what the boys did on tour, we were just happy to be back and join this group,” he explained.
“We simply wanted to add value after a week off [following the Springbok commitments] and then a week of integration with the squad, which was good, and I really enjoyed the game.”
“Whatever role we have to play coming in and fitting in with the group is something we will gladly take because, at the end of the day, it’s not about us, but about the Sharks.”
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