Sharks’ lack of bite a concern for coach after latest loss
Robert du Preez concedes his side had no answer to the physical threat of the Bulls forwards in 37-14 defeat
The Sharks came into the Super Rugby season in a bullish mood, hopeful of leading the SA sides in the competition, but back-to-back defeats have exposed a lack of physicality and left them needing to take stock, coach Robert du Preez said. The Durban-based outfit was brushed aside 37-14 by the Bulls on Saturday, a week after a surprise home loss to the Stormers. Du Preez conceded his side had no answer to the physical threat of the Bulls forwards. “It was another clinical performance by the Bulls. They dismantled us, especially in that first 20 minutes. We just couldn’t get going,” Du Preez said. “Coming up here [to Pretoria] in a typical derby, it is always going to be tough. It’s like Test match rugby. When you don’t get traction up front, you are always going to be playing catch-up rugby.” Du Preez refused to blame the Sharks' game plan, instead suggesting their lack of physicality and poor execution was to blame for their latest defeat. “Handling errors, too many turnovers — the...
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