The SA Rugby Under 21 Cup continues into week three this weekend when the Hollywoodbets Sharks Under 21s travel to Pretoria to take on their Blue Bulls counterparts.
Both sides have a won-one-lost-one record after two rounds, with the Hollywoodbets Sharks Under 21s claiming an important 22-7 victory over Free State last weekend away from home.
The confidence gained from this most recent victory against a union with a proud junior record will be vital against a Bulls’ side, themselves always contenders at this level.
Hollywoodbets Sharks Under 21 head coach JP Pietersen admits that he’s excited to see his young charges in action as they go into this game off the back of a bonus point win last week.
“The five points we got against Free State last week was a good confidence booster for our campaign, especially as it’s never easy to win in Bloemfontein. I think that was the first win there in years, so that’s really nice.
“In saying that, we have a big challenge coming up, playing the Bulls at Loftus. We had a good week of training and the boys are up for it. They know what is expected of them and it’s going to be a great challenge.
“We know what’s coming: it’s going to be a real physical battle and great for me to see the under 19 and under 20 players and where they’re at and if they’re capable of going all the way to seniors. This will be a good test for them and to see their character.
“We’re excited, but also confident that we can do the job.”
The team is led by eighthman Jannes Potgieter and Saturday’s match is scheduled for a 11.30am kick-off.
Hollywoodbets Sharks Under 21s
- Dylan Willis
- Andrew Davis
- Dian Heunis
- Sphephelo Mbonambi
- Pretorius van Heerden
- Jhan-Henri Smit
- Meno Barnard
- Jannes Potgieter (c)
- Ceano Everson
- Jean Smith
- Spha Ngcobo
- Stehan Heymans
- Hakeem Kunene
- Risima Sambo
- Jaco Williams
Replacements
- Cilliers Viljoen
- Phatu Ganyane
- Mawande Mdanda
- Hennie Sieberhagen
- Mandisi Nkutha
- Juan Loots
- Singele Mkhize
- Edward Sigauke