Sharks enter decisive period
1 Mar 2011
JON CARDINELLI writes that if the Sharks hope to maintain their status as conference leaders they will need to capitalise on a favourable tour draw.
Anything less that three wins will be a failure for John Plumtree’s men, who have to date eased to two comfortable victories. While the performances have been far from polished, their intensity and tactical appreciation have been unmatched. If they can add a dimension of accuracy to their game, they will trouble their tour opponents.
The Sharks play the Force this week, a team that so nearly upset the Reds in the opening round. The Force were typically stingy on defence and controlled possession for long periods. If not for their 25 handling errors, they may have inflicted as much damage to the scoreboard as they did to the Reds’ pack.
The bye arrived at a bad time for the Force, and they now have to start from scratch. They’ll host a Sharks team that’s built some momentum through two wins, a team that has a reputation for meeting aggressive forward challenges head on.
The Sharks travel to Melbourne thereafter to tackle the Rebels, a team that’s enjoyed mixed success. The win against the Brumbies was a magic moment for the Melbourne side, but the Sharks have nothing to fear as long as they stick to their game plan. They have the right mix of muscle and guile to outplay a Rebels side that is limited in key areas.
Next on the Sharks’ schedule is the Chiefs. While the men from Hamilton have always been known for their ability to counterattack, they used to hold a reputation as one of the tougher units at the breakdown. We’ve seen little evidence of this in the Chiefs’ first two games, however, and these failings have contributed to two defeats. The Sharks are a team that bullies opposing packs before unleashing the backline, and I suspect they will be especially tight against the Chiefs.
The final tour match is by far the toughest. If Plumtree harbours hopes of beating the Crusaders he will need to manage his squad cleverly in the preceding weeks. What is in the Sharks’ favour is that the Crusaders are likely to host this game at Trafalgar Park in Nelson, and so home ground advantage may not be as much a factor.
Winning at least three of these four clashes will keep them in the top two of the South African conference, while winning all four will keep them in pole position. They’re well placed now, and while there’s pressure to perform on this tour, it’s a pressure they need to embrace.
They showed good composure against the Blues last week, and will have further opportunities to put substandard sides away on the coming tour. If they can return from their Australasian sojourn with a three from four return, and ultimately a five from six record, they will be superbly-placed as they begin their home leg of the competition.
That first home game in round seven is against the Stormers, a team that hasn’t won in Durban since 2004. Thereafter, they will enjoy a bye.
The promising halfback pairing of Charl McLeod and Pat Lambie has dominated Super Rugby like they dominated the 2010 Currie Cup. Lambie has impressed with his distribution while his kicking game has also been crucial to the Sharks’ cause. McLeod may not offer as much in the tactical kicking department, but the Sharks have a good alternative to Lambie in fullback Louis Ludik, a player who was hugely influential against the Blues.
What’s been less impressive is the lack of synergy between Meyer Bosman and Lambie, as well as the centre combination of Bosman and Stefan Terblanche. That midfield is under pressure to produce in the coming weeks.
The Sharks’ inconsistent lineout and defence will also require sharpening. Terblanche hailed the latter aspect as a reason for victory last week, but the reality is the Sharks missed 20% of their tackles.
It may seem harsh to criticise a team that is yet to concede a try, but their defensive stats tell a story. The Sharks leaked eight linebreaks against the Blues, and had the Aucklanders not committed 29 handling errors, the contest may have been closer.
A sharper showing is required on tour, a four-game period that could be so crucial to the Sharks’ play-off prospects.
148 Comments
1 Mar 2011, 05:55 am
I think they need to do something about their centre combination.
1 Mar 2011, 06:04 am
Ja, Stef is still needed at 13 but Meyer should be back at the Cheetahs….
Anyone know if the refs have been announced for this week?
1 Mar 2011, 06:14 am
@KevinRack(KevinRack)-1:
Tereblance is now really over the hill and should be benched for Adi immediately.
Now these guppies still look clueless when it comes to creating and scoring tries, two push over tries against the Cheetahs showed just how boring they are in attack and those two lucky tries against the Blues again exposed the guppies for what they really are … boring pretenders … again … just as they have been for 15 years now and I do not see them stepping up soon and losing that well deserved tag of chokers.
1 Mar 2011, 06:26 am
We still hav to see the Sharks winning under a referee who is not a S African,,,,,
Their two wings hardly looked a scoring threat so far.
1 Mar 2011, 06:41 am
Sharks 2/2 so far playing “boring” rugby. Things could get interesting once the team gels into place : )
1 Mar 2011, 06:44 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-3:
Idiot, the Sharks have gone on a winning streak since dropping Jacobs, throwing Murray away and moving Stef to 13.
1 Mar 2011, 06:47 am
I think Jacobs could be very useful as an impact sub, once the sharks forwards have roughed up its opposition. Tired bodies will mean a lot of space that Adi’s pace will exploit.
1 Mar 2011, 06:49 am
@Kobus Kitty(Kobus Kitty)-6: how the hell can Adi go to the RWC if he is not playing? what happens if Mossie gets injured, does a rusty take his place? no those ogres at the Sharks must play Adi, end of story.
1 Mar 2011, 06:53 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-3:
2 from 2 so far this season, how is your team doing?
1 Mar 2011, 07:13 am
@Slartibartfast(Slartibartfast)-9: come now Cheetah farm boi … this is a Sharks thread and we are talking about fish.
1 Mar 2011, 07:17 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-10:
Sure keep it up, I just struggle to understand how a supporter of a team with a record of 15 losses in a row…and counting, can actually comment on the poor way another is WINNING! Silly if you ask me.
1 Mar 2011, 07:26 am
@Slartibartfast(Slartibartfast)-11: top must be hard for the mentally slow to keep up but you can do it
1 Mar 2011, 07:36 am
Red Lion do you honestly think the WAY we win bothers us? And to less of an extent if we entertain the likes of you? Point is we are winning, something the lions havent done in 15 games. If i were you I would worry about you ***** cats first.
1 Mar 2011, 07:38 am
I would also go with Adi at 13…
1 Mar 2011, 07:39 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-12:
Oh I get it, you want me to step down to your level! Maybe another day…
1 Mar 2011, 07:42 am
@Kapper(Kapper)-13: bravo spoken like a true Joburg Shark who proudly walks around in his brand new Mr Price shirt at Sandton City … there are lots of boi’s like you.
1 Mar 2011, 07:43 am
sharks
1 Mar 2011, 07:44 am
@Slartibartfast(Slartibartfast)-15: now boi step up to the plate, keep to the subject thread and talk about fish … now smell you later.
1 Mar 2011, 07:44 am
sharks?
1 Mar 2011, 07:44 am
ja, sharks!
1 Mar 2011, 07:45 am
SHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARKSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!
1 Mar 2011, 07:46 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-18: run along me old fruit.
1 Mar 2011, 07:46 am
Unfortuantely you got that all wrong. You ever realise you have every type of comeback except a rugby wise comeback? Must say something about your knowledge. Which makes it that much easier for us.
1 Mar 2011, 07:48 am
That forward pack of the Sharks is scary.
1 Mar 2011, 07:52 am
@rangerman(rangerman)-22: I was asking a question yesterday and never got a good answer, maybe you can enlighten me.
why is it that McLeod can take 3 it 4 steps before passing the ball but when Ricky does the same it is a rugby crime?
1 Mar 2011, 07:56 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-25: because when mcleod does it, he knows that he has space due to the efforts of our forwards.
whilst when ricky does it, he usually puts his 10 under enormous pressure as a knock on effect of having a powderpuff frontrow.
some might say it is the wp packs fault and they would be right to a certain extent but ricky needs to adapt.
there is also the fact that mcleod recently won the cc and the last two games comfortably
then again, vermaak looks like a crab that has come out of my pot. nice and pink but still moving sideways.
1 Mar 2011, 07:56 am
@Kapper(Kapper)-23: come on tell me you stay in Dirtbin, don’t be shy now.
1 Mar 2011, 07:59 am
@rangerman(rangerman)-26: okay I see, so Ricky will be just fine in a Bok jersey with those monster forwards in front of him, no use talking about McLeod then.
1 Mar 2011, 08:03 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-28: is you thick?
ricky hasnt adapted.
but its a long season so lets see.
i am no ricky basher, he has bled green and gold so i will give him time to prove himself.
jano? nah, his psyche has been irreperably damaged by being involved with a bunch of lo….uhm..a team that has a losing habit.
maybe the lions could try rehab?
1 Mar 2011, 08:10 am
Didnt even know Sharks are in Australia. Chatting with Lwazi Mvovo on Facebook just now, asking why he’s up this early in the morning. He pointed out that it’s 14:05 in Australia. Boy do I feel dumb.
1 Mar 2011, 08:12 am
@rangerman(rangerman)-29:
“his psyche has been irreperably damaged by being involved with a bunch of lo….uhm..a team that has a losing habit”
come now Ranger, if you believe that **** then we may as well make al die Bulle Bokke.
1 Mar 2011, 08:13 am
Haha, the punters are throwing criticism our way! Well, if not for Alberts (who is a legend otherwise) stuffing up 2 trys, we would have had a bonus point. Against the Blues, yes the side that beat the saders in round 1. If I was a Cheetahs or Lions supporter I’d be worried about my own side – 0 from 2! If I was a Bulls or Stormers supporter I’d worry about my own side scraping past the minnows. The Sharks are on track and should get better. Adi and Deysel will provide excellent depth.
1 Mar 2011, 08:14 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-30: Name dropper
1 Mar 2011, 08:16 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-33:
Couldnt help myself.
1 Mar 2011, 08:17 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-31: rehab buddy, its all i can suggest.
gotta go, cheers.
1 Mar 2011, 08:20 am
Anybody here listen to Jacaranda FM’s Kaptein Skuim? He has a lovely remix of Steve Hofmeyr’s “Agter elke ma”.
Daar’s ‘n bul wat weet wat aangaan/
agter elke skrum/
Nou druk ons hul tot die trane rol/
Bakkies maak hul bang/
Almal maak tog foute/
Victor maak ‘n plan/
Solank Fourie du Preez staan/
agter elke skrum…
Should scope a couple of SAMAs in my humble opinion. Or at the very least a Huisgenoot Tempo award.
1 Mar 2011, 08:20 am
ma = man
1 Mar 2011, 08:25 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-34: Carry on. It’s nice to be surrounded by people who are surrounded by Facebook friends who are famous…
1 Mar 2011, 08:31 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-38:
The rays of their fame reflect of me. I get invites from hot chicks coz I know them.
Suckers…
1 Mar 2011, 08:35 am
the onlu way the Lions will win a game is if Elton breaks a leg … no seriously! Elton break a leg!!!
1 Mar 2011, 08:37 am
@HongKongSlong(HongKongSlong)-7:
Hahahahahaha adi’s pace!!!!!!!!! What are you smoking!
Sadly adi is a carthorse and a powder puff tackler. Fortunately he is very unlikley to to start again for the Boks and even the hatters pdv and muir have at last seen the light.
Yes Adi could make up the quota component if needs be but thats about it.
1 Mar 2011, 08:47 am
JLP will play at 12 this week I think.
9Mcleod
10Lambie
12JLP
13Tereblanche
Looks like a much more balanced backline.
Also I just hope people keep underestimating Hargreaves, Sykes, Kanko and Daniel. Not sure why teams dont watch them more closely but long may it continue.
Kanko was actually my man of the match on Sat. He’s discovered some mongrel in him that I certainly havent seen before.
1 Mar 2011, 08:47 am
John Smit is faster than Adi!
1 Mar 2011, 08:48 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-25: Because Ricky is fat and useless, whereas McLeod is the second best scrumhalf in South Africa.
I have a question for you. After two games, the Lions are down two losses. 2 points on the log, with a points difference of -7.
Last year – after two games, the Sharks were down two losses. 2 points on the log, with a points difference of -6.
Can you explain to me why the Sharks start to last years season was heralded as a major disaster, whereas the Lions start to this years competition is said to hold promise ? I know the answer – I just want to hear you say it Redpad.
Oh, and one more question. If the Lions lose to the Blues, will you still be here or are you going to do a disappearing act again ?
1 Mar 2011, 08:51 am
@WO_to_kill_Sir_Elton(WO_to_kill_Sir_Elton)-43: I think we have our centres for the world cup without considering Adi.
Jean De Villiers, Jacques Fourie, Juan De Jongh & Wynand Olivier. Those first three names are probably in the top 5 centres in the world.
In addition, we will have a number of backup utility players in the form of Zane Kirchner, Francois Steyn & Pat Lambie to take up a slot in the centre if needs be. If Peter Grant goes along, he can also play centre.
I doubt Adi will be considered, but we will have to wait and see. Who knows what PdV will do.
1 Mar 2011, 08:52 am
@WO_to_kill_Sir_Elton(WO_to_kill_Sir_Elton)-40: what’s with all this Elton hate? did that stud sleep with your wife/girlfriend/daughter? come on move on.
1 Mar 2011, 08:55 am
@John Galt(John Galt)-42: Kankowski has worked a lot on his physicality. I noticed it against both the Cheetahs and the Blues and so did the commentators.
Blue eyed boy, Pierre Spies will have to watch his back or more specifically the number on his back because it isn’t guaranteed. His defense was suspect again in both games for the Bulls.
But this is exactly what I expected from this year’s pre-world cup tournaments. A lot of questions to be answered. Willem Alberts is also a juggernaut ! And I hear Deysel will re-appear some time soon as well.
1 Mar 2011, 08:56 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-39: then what do you do to the hot chicks?
1 Mar 2011, 08:56 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-44: well Dirty last year they conceded on average 5 tries a game … and incase you did not get it the first time know this I have been here since mid 2003.
1 Mar 2011, 08:59 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-47: Ya, not so convinced. I have seen Kanko and Spies man up at this level before. Easy behind a rampant pack. Spies showed some physicality in the EOYT, Kanko has never brought to international level. Personally I’d rather start with Vermuelen (Alberts at 7 with Juan out) with Kanko or Spies coming off the bench in the last 20.
1 Mar 2011, 09:02 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-49: Ok, great. So we shouldn’t expect you to go scampering off like a coward if the Lions continue losing ? I would respect that – it would make you one of a kind amongst Lions supporters. Lets see if it happens.
I would be stupid not to recognize the improvement in the Lions, but I am also interested to know why after two losses the media were already ringing the alarm bell for the Sharks, whereas I have noticed nothing of the sort for the Lions yet ?
You do realize, your Lions that are going to end in the top 3 of the SA conference at the expense of the Sharks (according to what you said) are already 6 log points and 36 points on points difference behind after just two games ?
1 Mar 2011, 09:05 am
@Ratel Brussow(Morne Steyn is under-rated)-50: I must agree – Kankowski has yet to impress me in a Bok jersey, whereas Spies has done his bit – so, its a difficult one for the selectors.
I must just say that Spies looked like a chicken without a head against the Cheetahs, completing what was the ‘collaboration of the gaping maw’ in the Bulls midfield defense on Saturday. And its not the first time Spies has been pinged for his defensive issues.
I like Vermeulen – I think at least he brings a bit of grunt to the Nr 8 jersey. Something we havent seen at the Boks since Danie Rossouw wore that jersey in the 2007 World Cup final.
1 Mar 2011, 09:08 am
Its actually a decisive period for the Lions. Lets see what they can do against the Blues. If they can run them close then SA teams will be in a strong position, but if they get blown away by international competition, but continue to guts out the derby’s, its no good for us. Cheetahs and Lions need to get over their Xenophobia and actually man up vs the international sides. Otherwise they must just Fark off. I’m tired of these sides giving away 5 pointers to the tourists only to upset and injure the local sides. If you want us to take you seriously play well against the foreigners.
1 Mar 2011, 09:08 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-48: I accept their requests.
1 Mar 2011, 09:08 am
Dirty boi please stop smoking that **** … McLeod the second best scrumhalf LOL.
he is over rated … an illusion who is slow and has to get up to running speed before he can pass the ball … no kicking game to speak of … no variety at all.
he is a 26 year old VC quality player who spent 5 years of his life playing Vodacom cup rugby and git his break because the likes of Pienaar and Kocky decided to go to greener pastures.
no after FDP the next best is Hougaard, Pienaar and Pretorius.
1 Mar 2011, 09:12 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-54: Wow, that’s awesome! Do you get to ‘poke’ them as well?
Get a life. I mean a real one, in the real world, outside of facebook.
P.S. Just having a laugh, I mean, here I am on a blogsite! We are sooooo cool.
1 Mar 2011, 09:13 am
@Ratel Brussow(Morne Steyn is under-rated)-53: Precisely !
All the hype, all the pomp and ceremony for the ‘unveiling’ of new players contracted, all the talk and all the money in the world means nothing if you end up in the bottom 4 on the log yet again.
Time for the Lions to put their performances where their mouths are.
Cheetahs are a different story. They didn’t as much as make a squeak in the pre-season. No big mouth posturing from them. So, I am not sure if they themselves are expectant on any improvement.
1 Mar 2011, 09:15 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-51: because the Sharks were packed with Boks who had just won the tri-nations the year before and everyone expected – fairly or unfairly – for them to get out the blocks running. yet the team seemed to be in turmoil, the steve meyer saga, rumours that he Dup brothers wanted out and were against Smit etc.
the lions on the other hand are a bunch “replacements” that seem to have a semblance on cohesion about them which is a step up from the headless chickens they were last year…that’s the difference!
1 Mar 2011, 09:15 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-55: Kockott didn’t leave for greener pastures chop – his contract wasn’t renewed by the Sharks. When he couldn’t find any other union prepare to house his enormously huge head, Brian Van Zyl offered him a ‘mercy contract’ of 6 months.
It was at that stage, the ‘desperate shoppers’ stepped in and signed him.
He didn’t leave out of choice. Get your facts straight.
1 Mar 2011, 09:15 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-54: and?
1 Mar 2011, 09:15 am
@Ratel Brussow(Morne Steyn is under-rated)-53:
Well said.
1 Mar 2011, 09:18 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-59: get your fact straight Dirty, he had a fall out with Plum and that’s why he was allowed to leave.
1 Mar 2011, 09:20 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-55: McLeod is a new breed of retro-styled scrumhalves, who do their primary job very well. His service and decision making is excellent. Tactical kicking? Your 10 has a much better view of the field and can kick at lower trajectories, a 9 should supply him with quick, good service to allow the 10 to make the tactical decisions.
For too long SA scrumhalves have tried to copy FDP (read Pienaar, Hougaard and Kockett). FDP is a genius and came up in a time where we had no real good 10s who could control a game with their boot. His service is brilliant and he kicks well, but the others are very poor imitations often kicking too frequently and badly, not to mention taking ages to get the ball from a ruck.
Charl is at every ruck, often preventing turn-overs and provides Lambie with excellent service. This as a base Lambie can then choose the right decision as he has time, a valuable commodity.
By the way, did you watch the CC final. Charl’s chip for Mvovo, that was pretty good vision and kicking.
1 Mar 2011, 09:20 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-58: Steve Meyer is an idiot. I dont know what his story is, but he wont be playing for the Sharks again. Thanks to his equally idiotic girlfriend.
There was no ‘vibe’ between Smit and the Du Plessis brothers. That was media hype. I know that much for sure.
The Sharks problem was purely related to one thing. Juan Hernandez had trained all the routines right through the pre-season training with the Sharks. He then did something stupid and injured his back. Yes, they should have probably been prepared with a contingency plan, but 2 weeks before the Super 14 was due to start – the Sharks had no flyhalf.
Andy Goode was flown in from England, and met the team for the FIRST time in Christchurch while they were preparing to take on the Crusaders.
Despite all of that, the Sharks points difference from 4 of their 5 losses was -11. Less than two converted tries.
That – is the true, media unadulterated version of what happened to the Sharks last year.
I praise the Lions for their improvement – no doubt. But, I thought from all the hype we were going to see a runaway win for them this year. I mean, they were Super 15 champs before the competition even started !? 2 losses from 2….not a good start for that hey ?
1 Mar 2011, 09:21 am
The S.A conference all looks a bit too predictable, in no specific order, the top 3 will undoubtedly be, Stormers, Bulls and Sharks. The Lions had two close games, and there are massive improvements, but you can have the coach and a whole host of new faces and lots of money,but you not coming back to win a super rugby tournament after a 13 on the trot losing streak from last year (now 15). It will take another season or two before they will really be competitive. The Cheetahs on the other hand, have not much depth in their squad, and not enough big game breakers. Juan Smith is out and that will make it even harder. They have Ashleigh Johnson that is in great form, but no one to back him up. Their backs are not looking all that sharp and no one really that will be a threat, to sides like the Caders and Canes. But i must admit, i thought, and besides his goal kicking, Naas Olivier had a brilliant game against the bulls.
Its going to be a three way battle between, sharks, stormers, bulls…who will finish on top is to be seen and it is going to be close. Lions, Cheetahs, maybe next year.
1 Mar 2011, 09:21 am
kokkerot is much faster than jano anyway! and he kicks much better than quota elton!
1 Mar 2011, 09:22 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-62: No – his contract was not renewed. That’s what appears in the records. Nothing about any fall out with Plum.
Sharks didn’t want Kockott any more – you saved us having to pay him for another 6 months.
Same with Murray.
1 Mar 2011, 09:23 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-58: The Lions will probably buy Steve Meyer. They buy anything that comes available – so, he should try his luck there.
1 Mar 2011, 09:30 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-67: of course you will believe the official Shark spin and ignore all of the Dirty stories if the fallout between Plum and Kocky, hey Dirty.
1 Mar 2011, 09:31 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-60: Thats it, Im practically engaged.
@Ratel Brussow(Morne Steyn is under-rated)-56:
1 Mar 2011, 09:31 am
“The Brumbies have fired their coach Andy Friend just two games into the Super Rugby season after reports of a bust-up with the players.
Friend has been replaced by his assistant coach Tony Rea as coach after a board meeting, days after the team suffered a shock one-point defeat to new team the Melbourne Rebels on Friday. They had won their opening match.”
1 Mar 2011, 09:33 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-62: Dude – I know how badly you guys want a win. I was actually cheering for the Lions against the Stormers because I know how much it will mean to them. I was watching the game with a mate of mine that is a Lions supporter, and I could see the disappointment after the game.
It will come – but you guys have set very high expectations for your team in what is essentially still a rebuilding phase for them.
As things stand, I think the Lions will be pretty much untouched by Springbok selections – so, perhaps the Currie Cup will be a good one for the Lions this year. In fact, I would go as far as to predict the Lions will do well in the Currie Cup this year.
1 Mar 2011, 09:36 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-69: I actually suspect that your story could be right. Kockott lost favour at the Sharks for some or other reason – that is clear to see. So – you could be right.
But – fact remains, his contract was not renewed at the Sharks. He was offered a 6 month extension, but at the same time was approached by the Lions and accepted. I think had he been approached by the Cheetahs, Bulls or Stormers he would have accepted as well.
That’s the real story from what I know.
1 Mar 2011, 09:36 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-64: i thought you asked RL about the first two games and why the “media” branded the Sharks losses a disaster while they seem to still be cutting the lions some slack. the sharks lost 18 – 19 to the Chiefs and then 20 – 25 to the Cheetahs with Dumond @ 10 with Ruan coming off the bench.
1 Mar 2011, 09:36 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-69: No, Kockett was unhappy cause Charl was keeping him out, obviously he had a fall out with Plum. Good riddance.
Years back Kockett said to one of my mates at his Bulls party “Do you know who I am? **** Muir says I’m the next big thing.”
Kockett has always been a disruptive, arrogant arsehole. I for one prefer Charl’s no nonsense, humble attitude. He’s a brilliant player.
1 Mar 2011, 09:38 am
I see Schalk Burger Snr has had a dispute with his domestic ( I don’t think that’s quite the same as a “domestic dispute” but you never know
) and both have laid charges of assault against each other.
I’m sure the Anti Schalk brigade will lap this up.
1 Mar 2011, 09:40 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-74: The answer is pedigree, Transie. The Sharks have a winning pedigree and have expectations to win, whilst the Lions have a losing pedigree and have expectations to lose badly. Losing close is way above most expectations for the Lions!!
1 Mar 2011, 09:42 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-64: you’re being facetious sure re the lions. their fans had nothing to look forward for many years, now things started happening and they were/are hopeful, why do you feel the need to ridicule that?
from a base of losing 13 games in a row, mitchell said winning games remains a priority but another factor he wants to develop more pertinently is a style of play or culture.
1 Mar 2011, 09:43 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-74: That’s perfectly correct. I doubt Monty Dumond was originally part of the Sharks plans as first choice flyhalf – yet there was little recognition or ‘mercy’ provided in the media for their predicament.
The Lions have had exactly the same start this year, uncannily similar except that they are playing with the flyhalf they expected to play with. But obviously the expectations for the Lions are much lower because I haven’t seen close to the amount of media coverage about the Lions two opening losses.
1 Mar 2011, 09:44 am
@Ratel Brussow(Morne Steyn is under-rated)-77: Nail on the head.
1 Mar 2011, 09:44 am
Betting odds : Elton to be the next Earl Rose …. 1/1!
1 Mar 2011, 09:45 am
@Ratel Brussow(Morne Steyn is under-rated)-77: well said, so why does that seem to escape your fellow sharkie Dusky?
1 Mar 2011, 09:45 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-78: Ok – I did say I am prepared to acknowledge that there is an improvement, but in the greater scope of the Super 15 tournament, two opening losses are two opening losses.
1 Mar 2011, 09:46 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-76: Jaaaaaaaaa. Not sure what to make of it. Im sure Gunther has had many run-ins with Maevis which were much more volatile.
Bit of a non-story in my opinion.
1 Mar 2011, 09:48 am
@Ratel Brussow(Morne Steyn is under-rated)-77: Pedigrees? Come on, you dont want to start swinging Muirs in public. Im pretty sure the Lions have won more Currie Cup and Super Rugby titles than your Sharkies…
1 Mar 2011, 09:49 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-76:
She said he grabbed her clothes in front of her chest and that she then grabbed his clothes as well. She apparently fell down during the row.
it must have been love but it’s over now.
1 Mar 2011, 09:53 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-85: Transvaal won the Super 10 in 1993.
Regarding the Currie Cup – depends how far you want to go back.
1 Mar 2011, 09:53 am
@Pinky Kekana kills Beemer buys Merc(gunther)-86:
‘Must have been love’ 
1 Mar 2011, 09:54 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-85: winning pedigree 3 Super titles in 4 years for the Bulls, they have it … fish 3 CC titles in 10 years, so what.
Fish please explain that pedigree
1 Mar 2011, 09:56 am
@Pinky Kekana kills Beemer buys Merc(gunther)-86: Maybe she didn’t enjoy the joyride.
1 Mar 2011, 09:56 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-84:
nobody dares have a run in with Maevis.
she is far too politically connected.
Gupta is her middle name.
1 Mar 2011, 09:57 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-89: So what ?
It’s only 2 Currie Cup titles in 10 years, so allow me to correct you there.
I would however rather have 2 in the last 10 years than none in the last 10 years.
1 Mar 2011, 09:57 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-87: Exactly. Doesnt “pedigree” imply going all the way back?
I mean he didnt say “recent” pedigree, did he?
1 Mar 2011, 09:58 am
fish boys I will return later to read more about your pedigree, maybe you can use some of Smit’s aura for some inspiration.
1 Mar 2011, 09:58 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-90: Maybe she was fading like a flower ?
1 Mar 2011, 09:59 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-90:
more likely he was giving her the look.
1 Mar 2011, 10:01 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-93: Sure – then the Sharks don’t have the Lions pedigree, which at this point is actually fine with me.
I know the oomies with their multitone khaki shirts, short sleeve pant and velskoens like to argue about who won the most Currie Cups going back to 1889, but its hardly a topic that excites me.
Knock yourselves out though.
1 Mar 2011, 10:01 am
I’m just wondering, what will happen if the Lions also go through this whole season without winning a game. That then must be some kind of record for being the worst professional team in history, of any kind of sport. I mean it will be something like a 30+ losing streak. Now that will be a shocker, and it is not impossible either, they proved they could do it last year. Anyway, just a thought.
1 Mar 2011, 10:02 am
@Pinky Kekana kills Beemer buys Merc(gunther)-96: Maybe he wasn’t listening to her heart ?
1 Mar 2011, 10:03 am
@MTN RedLion Roars…(RL)-89: i think the “winning pedigree” the Sharks fans are referring to is something Wooden Spoon alluded to earlier this year, that on average the Sharks have finished higher on the log than all the other franchises, meaning even though they haven’t his the summit they’ve been hanging about there for quite a while.
the cheetahs have won currie cups in the recent past so i don’t know if they ca also refer to themselves as possessing “winning pedigree”, quite complicated
1 Mar 2011, 10:03 am
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-98: 15 losses in a row now. I wonder what the record is for that in Super rugby ? I think the Bulls might have come close at one stage.
The Bulls with their pedigree.
1 Mar 2011, 10:04 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-100: Who gives a damn ?
Pedigree means nothing this year.
1 Mar 2011, 10:10 am
@Sharkie10(Sharkie10)-98: Yep, it’s official. 15 losses in a row is a Super rugby record held by the Lions, and they are still building that record.
- Most consecutive losses: 15 losses – Lions, 15 May 2009 to 19 February 2011 (still ongoing)
In addition to this, the Lions also hold the record for the most losses in a season.
- Most consecutive losses in a season: 13 losses – Lions, 2010
They also hold the record for the most points conceded in a season.
- Most points conceded in a season: 585 – Lions, 2010
And another;
- Largest points difference conceded in a season: 315 – Lions, 2010
NOW THAT….IS PEDIGREE !
1 Mar 2011, 10:12 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-99:
more likely she was dressed for success.
and he felt it was dangerous.
1 Mar 2011, 10:12 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-102: you asked the question, ratel answered and said “winning pedigree” is the difference between sharks and lions, now when that pedigree is put to the test you say it doesn’t matter hahahaha
1 Mar 2011, 10:15 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-105: ah, still being a silly boy eh?
express an opinion for a change.
i will start you off:
the lions should be replaced by the kings so they can get a break from all the anguish.
1 Mar 2011, 10:17 am
@Pinky Kekana kills Beemer buys Merc(gunther)-104: And it all ended in a Crash Boom Bang.
1 Mar 2011, 10:20 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-107:
and before you know it she was sleeping in her car.
1 Mar 2011, 10:20 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-95:
1 Mar 2011, 10:21 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-105: Well, do I have to agree with ratel ?
If you refer back, you will note that I actually said ‘pedigree’ in the sense of going back 20, 30 or more than 100 years of Currie Cup for that matter means very little to me nor is it a topic of interest for me to discuss.
I bet you most on here would have a few different definitions of ‘pedigree’ to begin with. Perhaps as you correctly said, the fact that although no titles have been forthcoming the fact that of all the South African teams, the Sharks have the most super rugby wins – that could be construed as pedigree ? No ?
Whatever your opinion is, and whatever the definition of ‘pedigree’ is, I could care less about it for the 2011 season.
1 Mar 2011, 10:24 am
@Pinky Kekana kills Beemer buys Merc(gunther)-108: Well I think Schalk will be sleeping single for a while if that’s the case…..
1 Mar 2011, 10:34 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-110: well you tacitly agreed with him already
80. Dusky(Dusky) :
1 Mar 2011, 09:44 am
@Ratel Brussow(Morne Steyn is under-rated)-77: Nail on the head.
1 Mar 2011, 10:46 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-112: Ag ok Transie. Congratulations.
Are you a lawyer ? Or just an all round pain in the backside ?
1 Mar 2011, 10:51 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-113:
if you are not careful he will start digging up your school reports.
rather escape before he makes you chew your arm off in frustration
1 Mar 2011, 10:53 am
@Pinky Kekana kills Beemer buys Merc(gunther)-114: He is the forum auditor or something. Must really be the fire at any party !
1 Mar 2011, 10:56 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-113: throwing your toys and being insulting when you can’t come up with anything is not a good look. this is just banter dusk, no win or lose.
1 Mar 2011, 11:00 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-116: I am too scared to continue this discussion with you – goodness knows where you will go back and dig reference from.
I can just imagine you at a braai.
‘Hey guys, I will start the braai in a minute’
Transie: ‘Well actually, you said at 12.42 that you would start the braai in 5 minutes, so technically you are precisely 7 minutes and 32 seconds late. No problem – just saying you know…’
1 Mar 2011, 11:00 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-116:
well, sometimes people lose it
1 Mar 2011, 11:01 am
@Pinky Kekana kills Beemer buys Merc(gunther)-118: Yep – true that !
1 Mar 2011, 11:05 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-116: Oooo eeeii…eish…aaaa….you are the winna wena !
1 Mar 2011, 11:07 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-117: you’re trying too hard
1 Mar 2011, 11:10 am
@Transformation(Transformation)-121: Oh, I wasn’t trying hard at all. I think I have a pretty clear understanding to be honest. Doesn’t require much imagination at all.
1 Mar 2011, 11:15 am
@Dusky(Dusky)-122: You are coming across as being a bit petulant on this one., especially with post 120.
Let it go, take it on the chin and get ready for round 2. There’ll be plenty more arguments on this blog, of that you can be assured.
1 Mar 2011, 11:17 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-123: thanks Taa…
1 Mar 2011, 11:21 am
@Taahirah(Taahirah)-123: Ok then….
1 Mar 2011, 11:26 am
With all due respect Stefan Terblanche has served the Sharks well and is a consummate proffesional BUT he isnt the answer for the Sharks at 13. He doesnt have the speed to cause an trouble for opposition defences,he keeps shooting up in defence exposing inside channels especially.Blues & Stephen Brett specifically were so bad they couldnt exploit this but be sure the OZ sides will see this…vs the Saders Robbie Freuan will be biggest dangerman esp with the speed factor. As a 15 or utility yes but otherwise play Adi at 13 who adds another dimension at 13.Plus Bosman can function better at 12 with a wider running 13 with the ability to run off him.
PS-can the Lions please drop Killian & play Kamana from the start…would like to see Francis have a run at 12 as well.
Waylon Murray is playing some good rugby & at only 24 he was a big loss to the Sharks.
1 Mar 2011, 11:33 am
@mshiniwami(mshiniwami)-126: What !? Adi Jacobs will defend the channel better than Stefan Terblanche ? Have you been smoking engine degreaser ?
That said though – I do actually agree that Adi should get another go at 13, but not due to his defense. I think Adi is a better 13 on attack than Stefan.
Waylon Murray might be in better shape now, but while he was at the Sharks – he was useless. On attack – used to run all the way along the defensive line hoping he would find a gap. Most of the time this caused him to get bashed backwards in the tackle and have to be rescued by his forwards.
I am pleased for him that he is functioning at the Lions, but he was a zero at the Sharks in the last year or two that he played for them.
1 Mar 2011, 11:46 am
Adi jacobs is one of the better attacking 13′s we have in the country,
Problem is, he’s worse than a revolving door on one -on-one defence.
At international level having a guy like that in your team will cost you, in missed tackles, line breaks and extra effort from your team mates.
These days in rughby you are called upon to probably tacke 5 or 6 times more than you get to run with the ball if you’re a backline player.
1 Mar 2011, 11:53 am
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-128: our natural center is with the sharks soon
like i said yesterday , dont forget the name PAUL JORDAAN
1 Mar 2011, 11:56 am
@sharks_lover(sharks_lover)-129: Yeah I heard you. SA Sevens? Hope he doesn;t end up another Brent Russell
Personally I think Oupa is doing a more than capable job.
If you didn’t know how old he was you’d swear he’s one of the most promising players in the setup.
Problem is that won’t last forever, but for now he’s the best 13 you have at that level, can’t understand why everyone thinks the Sharks centres are in need of something extra.
1 Mar 2011, 11:57 am
@sharks_lover(sharks_lover)-129: he plays 12 & 10 though sharkie…
1 Mar 2011, 12:08 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-131: agreed , but i am sure he can fill that 13 spot
1 Mar 2011, 12:16 pm
actually jokes aside i know vulindlu is being groomed for 13 and he is still young
big strong fast good defender but he does have poor hand skills , which i know is being addressed
1 Mar 2011, 12:19 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-130: btw boet i’ll be at the wp game saturday , press box maybe catch you there for a cold one
1 Mar 2011, 12:24 pm
@sharks_lover(sharks_lover)-134: That will be nice. I’ll check my ticket supplier and see if we’re on for this weekend. In my busy state I haven’t even thought that far,
1 Mar 2011, 12:27 pm
@stormersboy(stormersboy)-135: ok just gimme a buzz once you know
i know the wife and i are watching the sharks match at the sharks supporters club , so prolly go the newlands thereafter
1 Mar 2011, 12:29 pm
@sharks_lover(sharks_lover)-136: Cool will do.
1 Mar 2011, 12:32 pm
@sharks_lover(sharks_lover)-136: are you going to leave Mangolitchi in charge of your shop
1 Mar 2011, 12:35 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-138: lol i told you before mango does not work for me , purely a friend
and he is back in JHB
now put ur woodenspoon away
1 Mar 2011, 14:53 pm
winning all 4 clashes?jc must be smoking some strong stuff.
1 Mar 2011, 14:59 pm
Sharks should never have bought Bosman. They could use Jacques-Louis Potgieter, Adrian Jacobs or
1 Mar 2011, 15:11 pm
Well think if we pick up 2 wins on the road I will be pleased. Derby games are tough, but so will picking up wins on tour.
Good luck to Sharks for their games in Oz and Nz.
1 Mar 2011, 15:13 pm
Pleased Sharks are out of the humidity. . Damn hot and humidity at a all time high today. Will be good for the team to be playing out of this humidity for a few weeks. They come back the humidity will still be here but not at this level.
1 Mar 2011, 15:19 pm
What a waste of time even fast-speeding through this.
What a complete waste of a thread.
Load of rubbish by what we are led to believe are mature adults and some would even say they are professionals.
Really!!
1 Mar 2011, 15:21 pm
@daydreamer(daydreamer)-141: cheetahs was very eager to get rid of him.i wonder why?
1 Mar 2011, 15:40 pm
I think three wins is an achievable goal. The Force ran the Reds close, but the Reds got clouted by the Waratahs. In other words, the Reds aren’t that hot this year (I have a theory that they can thank Ewen McKenzie for that) and the Force are even worse. The Sharks should be able to beat the Rebels, although the latter may be improving. The Chiefs have been pretty woeful. That leaves only the Crusaders, who were beaten by the Blues – who the Sharks comfortably despatched last weekend. I don’t expect the Sharks to beat the Crusaders in New Zealand – but it would be great, and if it doesn’t happen then three out of four would still be good.
2 Mar 2011, 11:58 am
Ja there are some okes on Keo that harbour a morbid hatred of the Sharks and any player that plays and has ever played for them. Even if the Sharks started playing like the ABs in every match, had a beautiful expansive running game, rock-solid defence,never let a try in, scored at least 4 tries (all created from a 3 phase movement), converted every try, kicked every penalty, won every single line-out and scrum…basically the perfect team, there will still be some on year that would say they were lucky or god helped them win.
Credit where its due but some okes on here have no appreciation of that. If the Lions start winning matches I would be delighted for them. The same goes if the Stormers do brilliantly well this year but these bitter sour-faced sour pusses will continue to rubbish the Sharks at every given opportunity. Someone here has a point when they say the Sharks get treated far more hashly by the media than any other SA team. I don’t see any articles on here about how the Stormers need to get their backsides in gear.
Last week wasn’t a picture-perfect performance by the Sharks but they came nowhere near losing that match and they’re still yet to concede a try. I hope it stays that way for as long as possible. Even if you are scoring tries through turnovers or off other team’s mistakes that still counts as winning. That’s the rules of rugby. It means you’re putting pressure on the other team and forcing them to make mistakes. The Sharks defence was putting a lot of pressure on the Blues. They were unsettled and it just so happens they send a wayward pass JLP’s way whose quick-thinking and hands passes to JPP with a lovely clear run-in. To act like scoring off mistakes isn’t playing rugby shows very little appreciation for the rules of the game. The whole idea of it is to do what you can to win a game.
What the Sharks need to work on now is their finishing ability. If they can get that right then they will be hard to beat. Its still early days. This is now a very long comp. So many things could happen between now and July. One things for sure the Sharks are a much better team this year. We have more settled combos that are slowly beginning to gel. There is far better morale. Plum has really worked hard on shoring up defence. There also seems to be better discipline as well. Anyone notice there were no fights,no handbags during the game last week? No-one got sent to the bin. Brilliant discipline from both sides. Just need to work on finishing and attacking synergy and maybe things will go very well.
2 Mar 2011, 12:00 pm
@kaksioek(kaksioek)-146: Winning the Force game is crucial! Got to hit them hard from the first whistle and we’ve got to play for 80 minutes. Retaining possession is also key. Defending the whole match will sap the energy of the forwards, especially with the jet lag factor. I will be biting my nails next week!
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