It’ll be an all-important mid-table game in the South African conference to finish Round 9, as the Sharks and Bulls look to improve on their sub-standard starts. Join The Roar for live scores of the match from 1:15am (AEST).
The Sharks sit second in the South African conference, but they only have two victories to their name from five games.
Even though the Bulls sit two places below them on the ladder, there’s nothing in it. Both sides have won two games, although the Bulls have played seven rather than six, with the only difference being in bonus points, of which the Sharks have four.
The Durban-based outfit come into this game refreshed off a bye, but their form heading into it was superb. Maybe not on the defensive end, but running up 63 points against the Blues would have filled them with confidence.
At any rate, they wouldn’t have been working on offence over the last fortnight on the training paddock, given they also left in 40. Despite that, they controlled the game and will be happy enough with the result, aiming to improve from there.
The Bulls also had last week off, sitting on the sidelines with a bye. Like the Sharks, they had a win in their last start, getting the better of the Stormers in a reasonably convincing performance.
The final score read 33-23, with their attack coming good and defence holding out. They will still be after improvements, and given the Sharks clear intent to attack, they will need to improve again on the defensive end of the park if they want to be in this match for the long haul.
Prediction
The Sharks at home, should have enough to get the job done, but this match will be an intriguing one either way.
Sharks by 3.
Be sure to join The Roar for live scores of the match from 1:15am (AEST) and don’t forget to add a comment in the section below.
Charging Rhino
Roar Guru
Yeh that Sunwolves vs Blues game was a super hot day. The Aucklanders struggled.
Carlos The Argie
Guest
It seems pundits didn't do too well in this "easy" round, eh?
Carlos The Argie
Guest
This includes the Jags too.
Machooka
Roar Guru
OK... not!?!
Taylorman
Guest
Try going from beating the British Lions to losing to the Sunwolves in a few weeks. Sharks are a model compared to the Blues :-)
Charging Rhino
Roar Guru
Sharks living up to their reputation. One week beat (almost) the best team in the comp. The next get hammered by a team they should comfortably beat. Can never rely on the Sharks being consistent. Oh well..... some things never change.
Harry Jones
Expert
Bulls played the hardest schedule except for Jags so far Battle hardened Rebels played easiest ...
That is the issue with SA rugby at the moment, there is absolutely no consistency in performances. Not one SA Franchise currently shows consistent form. I don't know whether it is coaching, motivation, culture or whatever. It does provide one with little hope though. You cannot rely on anything.
Nobrain
Roar Guru
From beating the Blues and almost the Canes on the road to this lost at home. Incredible.
Absolute pathetic again from the Sharks. How many times can you f up a move in a match with poor passing?
The Neutral View From Sweden
Roar Guru
Very very surprised how this game has played out so far. Bulls seem to be in total command and the Sharks fine NZ-form have gone AWOL. A late try by the Sharks in the first half gives a little hope for the second half.