Match Preview – Cell C Sharks vs Crusaders

Please welcome our very own rugby blogger, Sam Wilson, who will be looking at what to expect from this weekend’s Super Rugby match:

The clash between the Sharks and Crusaders is looking to be a tough contest this Saturday with both teams appearing quite evenly matched.

Well rested and chomping at the bit, the Bok trio of Pat Lambie, Cobus Reinach and Marcell Coetzee will return to the pitch replacing Frans Steyn, Conrad Hoffmann and Renaldo Bothma respectively. Steyn has received a 5 match suspension for his tip-tackle on Chiefs fly half Aaron Cruden two weeks back.

The Crusaders are not short of their own complications as they lose flyhalf Daniel Carter to paternity leave as he is expecting his second child. Richie Mc Caw is also said to be starting on the bench for the Saders which raises a few eyebrows. Needless to say the loss of this power duo will be an advantage to the Sharks and they will hopefully capitalise. Israel Dagg and Colin Slade will still try and give the Sharks a run but in the weeks leading up to this contest the boys have showed true character and drive and their defence should prove strong.

Weather wise, there are a few showers predicted which will have us all hoping that the Sharks can avoid the scrappy game they had last week.

In the end, it is anybody’s game and the champion of a battle can only ever be decided on the pitch. Here’s to backing our boys in Black and White in confidence that we’ll remain on top of the South African standings.