The Cell C Sharks Under 21s head to Bloemfontein this week for their SA Rugby Under 21 Championship clash against their Free State counterparts looking to make it two-from-two in recent weeks.
The Cell C Sharks Under 21s head into this game off the back of a morale-boosting 17-10 victory over the Lions two weeks ago and back-to-back victories will certainly add huge amounts of confidence to their campaign.
“We felt under pressure in that Lions game as it was a must-win for us if we want to keep our title hopes alive,” explained Head coach Mike Vowles. “With the expectation to perform, I think the most pleasing thing was not just that we won, but the attitude and performance, and massive amounts of character the boys showed.
“We were hugely physical and took the game to the Lions and I was incredibly proud of how they responded.”
Free State are languishing at the bottom of the six team log, yet to register a victory in the tournament and for a union that has always produced top class junior talent, they will also be going into this game full of focus.
“We still have life in this competition and two good wins in the next couple of games puts us in third place and into the semi-finals where anything can happen.
“The guys are in a good space and there is belief that we can operate and compete with the best. We’re looking forward to Friday’s game, it’s another opportunity for us to put in a big performance and build on our systems.
“We’re confident going into this game, but we know the Cheetahs can’t be underestimated in Bloem. We know it’s going to be tough and we’re expecting a difficult challenge, but one we’re looking forward to.
“We’re moving towards where we want to be and the potential in this group is very exciting.”
Friday’s match at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein kicks off at 1pm.
Cell C Sharks Under 21’s:
1. Phathu Ganyane
2. Bryce Calvert
3. Munashe Mhere
4. Le Roux Coetzee
5. Andrew Beyrooti
6. Damon Royle
7. Corne Rahl
8. Siyambuka Ningiza
9. Christian Els
10. Jean Smith
11. Lloyd Koster
12. Ethan Hooker
13. Brandon Wilkie
14. Banie Britz
15. Hakeem Kunene
Replacements
16. Marnus Winter
17. Abraham Reyneke
18. Blaine Golden
19. Jannes Potgieter
20. Luca Ribbens
21. Joshua Miller
22. Taurin Craze
23. Liqhayiya Gantsho