The first phase of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship (VURC) has now concluded after six rounds, with the four South African franchises all looking strong for the next phase coming up at the end of November.
All four local teams have a game in hand over the rest of the competition which could translate into three South African sides – barring the DHL Stormers – in the top eight.
For the Hollywoodbets Sharks, the early stages of the competition certainly challenged a side bereft of their Springboks, away on national duty in the Castle Lager Outgoing Tour. Not only were the stars unavailable, but it was a case of out of the frying pan of the Carling Currie Cup into the fire of the URC, on a tough three match tour.
There was much to enthuse about in Ireland, Wales and Italy, notably the fighting spirit and character shown, but it was also a case of tough times without the Boks.
The early stages, however, did show how much the team – under head coach John Plumtree – has developed and progressed.
Now a year into his tenure at the Hollywoodbets Sharks, Plumtree has brought silverware back to Durban – the EPCR Challenge Cup and the Carling Currie Cup trophies are now proudly displayed at Hollywoodbets Kings Park.
The challenges of starting the tournament on tour all changed in games four and five with the return of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, Hollywoodbets Sharks captain Eben Etzebeth, front rowers Bongi Mbonambi, Ox Nche and Vincent Koch, along with backline heroes Grant Williams, Jaden Hendrikse, Lukhanyo Am and Makazole Mapimpi.
They integrated back into the side with enormous impact, showing their value not only as international stars, but also professionals who can switch on in every arena, not just the world stage.
Two tough opponents came to Hollywoodbets Kings Park but found the going beyond their limits as the Hollywoodbets Sharks despatched the reigning champion Glasgow Warriors and then Irish giants Munster.
At the conclusion of the first phase, and even with a game in hand, the Hollywoodbets Sharks are just three points off the top four and looking likely to close out the year in a strong position to compete for the title.
In the next round, also at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, the Hollywoodbets Sharks will take on the Vodacom Bulls in another highly-anticipated clash between the old foes on 21 December. The DHL Stormers bring the tension again on Saturday, 30 November. Make sure to grab your tickets now.
Certainly, a large crowd that came to support the team at home were rewarded with two entertaining matches, made all the more enjoyable by victories over top class opposition.
The two VURC remaining home games at Hollywoodbets Kings Park before the year is out are certain to attract even bigger crowds who thrill at the sight of the team in black and white bossing opponents and scoring wonderfully exciting tries.
The players certainly feel the energy of the crowd and things are going to get even bigger and better at Hollywoodbets Kings Park.
