Coach John Plumtree says it will take time for the Sharks to come together despite winning their first match of the URC season against the Scarlets on Saturday.
The Durban-based side claimed a 29-19 bonus-point victory at Kings Park to lift themselves from 14th to 12th on the log before the international break.
But Plumtree admitted the performance showed they’re still some way from finding rhythm.
“We looked like we were going to open them up a few times, but an offload didn’t stick or the pass wasn’t quite there,” he said. “We still look a little bit like a side that hasn’t fully gelled. We’re not totally collective at the moment.”
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The Sharks struggled to generate quick ball, with Plumtree crediting the Scarlets for their physical effort and tactical nous.
“They were really good at slowing it down,” he said. “Bringing in guys like Sam Lousi and Jake Ball added a lot of power to their pack. They held our runners up well and we just couldn’t get the fast ball we wanted.”
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Plumtree was also frustrated by soft moments that kept the visitors in the contest.
“We started well but conceded some soft tries again – a dropped kick-off, a handling error, not exiting accurately. That’s putting ourselves under pressure through poor execution.
“One of our big focuses this week was to exit well. We knew we could score tries, but if you don’t get out of your half properly, you invite pressure straight back.”
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Plumtree highlighted the Sharks’ improved set-piece work as a positive.
“I’m really pleased with the way the forwards are scrummaging, and we’ve improved a lot around our driving lineouts. [Assistant coaches] Warren Whiteley and Philip Lemmer have done a good job in that space.”
However, he admitted the team remains a work in progress.
“We just don’t look like a side that’s really clicking yet. We’ve used different combinations and haven’t had Jordan [Hendrikse] fully up to speed. Our playmakers have been moving around – Siya [Masuku], Jordan and Jean [Smith] have all played 10 – so the backs haven’t quite clicked yet.
“When it all comes together, we’ll be good, but it’ll take a bit of time.”
The Sharks have a five-week break before their next URC fixture against Connacht in Galway. With the Springboks set to tour Europe, Plumtree said selection will depend on availability.
“We’ll have to prepare for Connacht without the Boks, and use them only if they’re available and lightly raced,” he said. “This time of year up north can be tough – wet, windy, long hotel stays – so we’ll see how each individual copes.”
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
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