Sharks Supporters Thread

[Albereth]

It is a great pity that the Stormers do not have their own thread to vent and unravel in, so that fellas like KOPITE can get the frustration out in their as opposed to trolling here. Anyhow, why isn't there a Stormers/WeePee thread? :confused:

Not enough of their supporters know how to type?

[Mephisto_Helix]

Not enough of their supporters know how to type?

Oats out of a nostril is a strange feeling ...... :D

[Devill]

May I ask if you think that the Sharks backline will be effective if Freddy has a 70% game instead of a 130% game?

[McT]

May I ask if you think that the Sharks backline will be effective if Freddy has a 70% game instead of a 130% game?

Good question. I am hoping Tim Whitehead returns soon. Also, JP was quite effective at outside centre. Odwa at right wing with JP at 13 and Tim at 12. That would make a difference.

[FoXtroT]

Na, I think JP has been doing a far better job at wing, I like the Whithead/Jordaan centre combination.

[Mephisto_Helix]

Jordaan out for the U20 team ....... wise thing to do would be JP/Whitehead to start, with Bosman replacing JP and JP moving out to the wing in the 2nd half. Also hope Freddy keeps firing.

[FoXtroT]

I read that the Sharks would not be releasing Jordaan for the Lions game.

[McT]

Question, any further news on Frans Steyn? He would be superb in our back line :)

[ponder]

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/401742_10151788057310512_880285511_24941800_195978 6891_n.jpg

WP supporters go get your own thread or else...

[Devill]

Question, any further news on Frans Steyn? He would be superb in our back line :)

Well he is fit again... wonder if he won't join up AFTER the Tests.

[FoXtroT]

Its not like we will be able to use him for long though, there's that rule that says you can only use recently signed players during the pool stages and not the playoffs.

[McT]

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/401742_10151788057310512_880285511_24941800_195978 6891_n.jpg

WP supporters go get your own thread or else...

Lmao!!! The strength of the Beast is unbelievable!!! :D

[FoXtroT]

Sharks sign Frans Steyn!!! Yea baby!

http://www.sharksrugby.co.za/news/general/120528/Sharks_Sign_Francois_Steyn

[Mephisto_Helix]

Welcome back bro, welcome back!

[wily me]

Sharks sign Frans Steyn!!! Yea baby!

http://www.sharksrugby.co.za/news/general/120528/Sharks_Sign_Francois_Steyn

Best news eva and this good news just when I'm outa booze. I love it, many heated "discussions" awaits in future with the anti Shark camps and jealous Zealots.

[MickeyD]

Sharks sign Frans Steyn!!! Yea baby!

http://www.sharksrugby.co.za/news/general/120528/Sharks_Sign_Francois_Steyn

Sorely needed to bolster the midfield.

[McT]

Sharks sign Frans Steyn!!! Yea baby!

http://www.sharksrugby.co.za/news/general/120528/Sharks_Sign_Francois_Steyn

Man alive! This is great news! :)


Sorely needed to bolster the midfield.

Aye to that. It will add new strength to the back line . . . and penalties that can be slotted from anywhere outside our 22 :p

[Devill]

Man alive! This is great news! :)

Aye to that. It will add new strength to the back line . . . and penalties that can be slotted from anywhere outside our 22 :p

He will only play two games for the Sharks, as of the last three fixtures you have one bye and IIRC he will not be allowed to play in the playoffs.

But I am VERY happy to see him back in SA. Lets hope the Sharks will keep him at centre.

(Which I think they will do as they moved Lambie to Fullback at Meyer's request imo.)

[McT]

He will only play two games for the Sharks, as of the last three fixtures you have one bye and IIRC he will not be allowed to play in the playoffs.

But I am VERY happy to see him back in SA. Lets hope the Sharks will keep him at centre.

(Which I think they will do as they moved Lambie to Fullback at Meyer's request imo.)

Interesting plans afoot by Meyer. I also wondered about eligibility of Steyn, but great to have him back regardless :)

[Devill]

Interesting plans afoot by Meyer. I also wondered about eligibility of Steyn, but great to have him back regardless :)

Yes for the sharks as well as the Boks it is a major boost. I also think Lambie looks better on Fullback than Flyhalf and that Steyn should play centre.

Great to see all the franchises helping / listening to the Bok plan.

[Wazza11]

As long as the dont go the route of the bulls im happy!

[Devill]

As long as the dont go the route of the bulls im happy!

Why not the way of the Bulls? Does winning trophies or scoring more tries than any other franchise in SA put you off?

[Pixual]

Why not the way of the Bulls? Does winning trophies or scoring more tries than any other franchise in SA put you off?

Bulls will never be cool, no matter how many trophies they steal, or tries they manage to engineer around the eyes of the officials. I'd rather stick needles in my eyes than ever raise a cheer for those idiots from the north.

[manesan]

Epic win for the Sharks! Comprehensive victory. And how about the Beast? What strength from the big man? Wow!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhskvFHeb6Y

Wow

[Devill]

@Pix, too late. Sharks and Stormer have already copied most of the bulls youth structures.

[PostmanPot]

o_O

[Pixual]

@Pix, too late. Sharks and Stormer have already copied most of the bulls youth structures.

Crap. The Sharks Academy existed before the Bulls even had a clue what marketing was about, let alone actually have a brand name. Whatever the Sharks have done to build their brand, the bulls have copied, right down to the freaking remote controlled kicking tee service.

Bulls supporters are about as cool as imitation Wayfarers.

[ClintX]

Crap. The Sharks Academy existed before the Bulls even had a clue what marketing was about, let alone actually have a brand name. Whatever the Sharks have done to build their brand, the bulls have copied, right down to the freaking remote controlled kicking tee service.

Bulls supporters are about as cool as imitation Wayfarers.

Hell yeah! Possibly some personal bias but the Sharks seem to have been at the forefront of most of the marketing drives used by most teams. Sharky has walked the side of the field for as long as I can remember, then there were the flasher girls (long before anyone else had cheerleaders) and the push up boys. And the famous pre and post match activities on the outer fields.

[porchrat]

Hell yeah! Possibly some personal bias but the Sharks seem to have been at the forefront of most of the marketing drives used by most teams. Sharky has walked the side of the field for as long as I can remember, then there were the flasher girls (long before anyone else had cheerleaders) and the push up boys. And the famous pre and post match activities on the outer fields.
Yea I remember the push up boys (I think they used ot be called the banana boys). They used to carry that surfboard around the field and mime paddling out on it.

Ah memories. :D

[Devill]

Crap. The Sharks Academy existed before the Bulls even had a clue what marketing was about, let alone actually have a brand name. Whatever the Sharks have done to build their brand, the bulls have copied, right down to the freaking remote controlled kicking tee service.

Bulls supporters are about as cool as imitation Wayfarers.

:erm: Where did I mention brand? As in RUGBY not as in selling a brand name...

Structures......

Ps you must have hated us winning the 2007 WC, as that was "Bulls rugby" through and through.

[McT]

Off topic somewhat from the above banter, I am going to watch the Sharks in action tomorrow.

Going with a Lions and Bulls supporter and should be a great occasion. Not sure where to park though :confused:

[APoc184]

Off topic somewhat from the above banter, I am going to watch the Sharks in action tomorrow.

Going with a Lions and Bulls supporter and should be a great occasion. Not sure where to park though :confused:

Johannesburg Stadium. Go check right now if they are selling parking tickets on Computicket. If they are not selling it on Computicket you can get it from the gate at Joburg Stadium. Usually R50/ticket. That is the best and safest parking available. Also close and safe to walk to stadium.

As, Media we get to park there. I'm going to Bulls vs Stormers. Want my media pass for the game?? :D

[McT]

Johannesburg Stadium. Go check right now if they are selling parking tickets on Computicket. If they are not selling it on Computicket you can get it from the gate at Joburg Stadium. Usually R50/ticket. That is the best and safest parking available. Also close and safe to walk to stadium.

As, Media we get to park there. I'm going to Bulls vs Stormers. Want my media pass for the game?? :D

So how do I get it from you at this late stage, assuming its cool with you? :)

[Devill]

So how do I get it from you at this late stage, assuming its cool with you? :)

APoc is the Mielie ninja, just look into a packet of popcorn and say his name 7 times.....

[McT]

APoc is the Mielie ninja, just look into a packet of popcorn and say his name 7 times.....

lol :D

[Pixual]

:erm: Where did I mention brand? As in RUGBY not as in selling a brand name...

Structures......

Ps you must have hated us winning the 2007 WC, as that was "Bulls rugby" through and through.

Yussus. How many Sharks players were in that team compared to Bulls players? Even the captain was a Shark. The coach was a soutie too. You guys live in a dream world.

[GreGorGy]

As, Media we get to park there. I'm going to Bulls vs Stormers. Want my media pass for the game?? :D

Bastard!

I'm gonna have to park 'n walk. B-field beer tent at 5.30?

[Devill]

Yussus. How many Sharks players were in that team compared to Bulls players? Even the captain was a Shark. The coach was a soutie too. You guys live in a dream world.

Do you think before typing? Under Jake White the Boks played "Bulls" rugby. Lots of kicking, big ball carriers, focus on forward play with a solid no.9 and 10 combo.

It is not about the players, but then again I suspect that you might not understand this, it is about the style of play.

Also if memory serves the amount of Bulls vs Sharks players in the WC 2007 Squad was something like 9:8 or 8:9 ... what is your point?

[ClintX]

Do you think before typing? Under Jake White the Boks played "Bulls" rugby. Lots of kicking, big ball carriers, focus on forward play with a solid no.9 and 10 combo.

Interesting. The rest of the world call that "test match rugby".

[Devill]

@Clint, I keep calling it 'bulls rugby' because if I was to explain to pix that the 'bulls rugby' as he calls it is infact test rugby I fear his head might explode.

[Pixual]

Please take your bull and eff off to your own park, k?

[Mephisto_Helix]

Why the effin hell is ODwa in this team, good god he is fscking awful! Nevermind our leaky midfield.

[Pixual]

Feck me. This is the most fecked up result. Seriously, the Sharks are just not up to thinking these days. Why the hell do they do this to us all the time?

All credit to the Lions though, who actually came to play rugby.

[Mephisto_Helix]

Broken midfield after losing our 2 new stars and still the 3 stooges coaching team is the reason for this. They need to go, no matter what, we need a new coaching setup.

[Pixual]

Agreed. They had no plan going into this game and it was clearly evident in the way the Lions were able to disrupt them so easily, in the backs and the forwards. And why didn't they take those last 2 kicks at goal to at least secure the bp? I mean, Jesus, anybody with a brain would have done that first rather than expect the Lions defense to crumble at the death.

More disappointment. Thanks guys.

[MickeyD]

What a royal fsck up!

The Lions were hungrier for the win and fully deserved it.

[BobsLawnService]

I think part of the problem is that the Sharks, like the rest of South Africa thought they just needed to pitch up to get the bonus point win. Combined with the fact that they have been very ordinary this season and it was a recipe for a good ass whipping.

[SinghDude]

This could possibly be the game that fsckd up their campaign!

[BobsLawnService]

This could possibly be the game that fsckd up their campaign!

Nope, they've lost plenty of games this season and except for one or two games (Including our home game against the Stormers.) we've been poor. I personally wouldn't be too cut up about it if we don't make the playoffs. There is no way we're beating any of the better sides in the tournament in a knockout game.

[Pixual]

New brooms are needed at the Sharks. Nick Mallet, please save us from the idiots!

[Albereth]

Bugger

[McT]

This was the second game (at the stadium) I watched Sharks capitulating to the Lions. Game plan was shocking. Lions way more hungry for the win. They deserved the win. Just wish the Sharks could show the same urgency like they showed at start of second half right throughout the game.

[BobsLawnService]

Any truth to the rumours that Plumtree was so pissed off on Saturday night that he refused to give any interviews?

[Devill]

I think part of the problem is that the Sharks, like the rest of South Africa thought they just needed to pitch up to get the bonus point win. Combined with the fact that they have been very ordinary this season and it was a recipe for a good ass whipping.

+1. This could have (and still could) happened to the Bulls / Stormers as well.

[porchrat]

Well that was a total mess. Sharks were asleep and while I may be a Sharks supporter they deserved to lose.

Wonderful to see the Lions playing so well. Makes me rather unhappy about the looming relegation mess with the Kings. It would be a real shame to see the Lions go at this point. While they haven't won much this season lots of those losses were very close and their rugby has become truly entertaining to watch despite the losses.

[ClintX]

The Lions only play one match of rugby every year and that is against the Sharks. Maybe next year they'll choose to play a couple more. This is going to sound like sour grapes but I am actually not bothered if the Sharks do not make it through the to play offs. This season has already been way too long...

[BobsLawnService]

The Lions only play one match of rugby every year and that is against the Sharks. Maybe next year they'll choose to play a couple more. This is going to sound like sour grapes but I am actually not bothered if the Sharks do not make it through the to play offs. This season has already been way too long...

I echo this sentiment. This whole "Taking a break in the middle of a tournament so we can see international rugby" thing is a joke.

As for the Sharks, even if they stumble into a playoff spot you just know that they are going to be stuffed up in that game.

[McT]

Season had been too long. Internationals making even longer.

[Pixual]

Now that I have calmed down a bit since that woeful display, I think perhaps we might be ringing the death knell a little too early on the Sharks. The week before I am sure the Stormers fans were thinking the same things that we are thinking: how could they have lost to the Sharks? It happens, I guess. Teams have off days and hopefully that was ours.

The thing that worried me about the game was how much time and space we gave the Lions on their own ball. No one was chasing up or closing down the space, so naturally those elusive players of the Lions were able to build up a lot of pace and find easy gaps. Hence the scoreline.

I think we will see a different team in the next game. If we don't then we at least know for certain that the coaches are frigging totally useless.

[thestaggy]

Well that was a total mess. Sharks were asleep and while I may be a Sharks supporter they deserved to lose.

Wonderful to see the Lions playing so well. Makes me rather unhappy about the looming relegation mess with the Kings. It would be a real shame to see the Lions go at this point. While they haven't won much this season lots of those losses were very close and their rugby has become truly entertaining to watch despite the losses.

As a Lions fan, I can't echo your statement. What you've seen this year is essentially what they have been doing for the past 4/5 years since the Cats split. In actual fact, they have gotten progressively worse since their debut. The Rebels have won more games in one season and a bit than than the Lions have won since 2010. . .

18 Wins, 3 Draws, 73 Losses, -1,145 points difference as of right now. Compare this with their fellow expansion teams;
Force - 32 Wins, 6 Draws, 56 Losses, -427 PD
Cheetahs - 27 Wins, 2 Draws, 65 Losses, -578 PD

It's the same story every week of every season. Look good in patches over the course of a game, then proceeed to kill themselves with stupid decision making and general sub-par play. Then once in a while they are truly murdered and their lack of quality is exposed. On the odd occassion they look alright, but even then they almost snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, as could be seen at the weekend; up 32-11 at the half before having to hang on for dear life towards the end.

Their rugby is frustrating to watch. Same excuses. ''Young team'', ''Back to the drawing board'', ''We'll learn from this'', ''Need to cut down on the mistakes''. Yes, I'm a disenchanted Lions fan. Seeing the same shoddy cr@p for the past 4/5 years will do that to you.

[McT]

/takes Devill's lead

/dust thread off

Let the games begin! :D

[McT]

Great win for The Shaaaaaaaaaarks! They have given themselves a good chance of making the top 6. Just got to make good against the Cheetahs next week.

[Devill]

Sharks out played the Bulls and fortune favoured the brave once or twice.

Now 3 SA sides can make the play offs :D

[McT]

Now 3 SA sides can make the play offs :D

Good news for local rugby :)

[Devill]

Good news for local rugby :)

Yes, now the bulls must just not lose to the lions and the sharks must not let it slip against the cheetahs.

[DJ...]

and the sharks must not let it slip against the cheetahs.

I'd rather play the Crusaders...:(

That bloody bogey side of ours really know how to screw us over sometimes...:mad:

[Devill]

I'd rather play the Crusaders...:(

That bloody bogey side of ours really know how to screw us over sometimes...:mad:

I am more worried about the bulls than the sharks, judging by the weekend past's performances :o

I am sure the Sharks will win by around 10 points unless the cheetahs really step up and / or the weather is terrible.

The sharks are looking good on attack (great ball handling against the bulls - pop-passes, SBW flips etc etc:p) and the cheetahs have a very poor defensive record.

If the Bulls play like they did against the sharks the lions should beat them by about 3-5 points.

[porchrat]

I am sure the Sharks will win by around 10 points unless the cheetahs really step up and / or the weather is terrible.
I don't know Devill the Sharks have this nasty habit of falling asleep in the games against these weaker sides. I mean just look at that match against the Lions that was tragic.

Fingers crossed though. Go Sharks!!!

[ponder]

Ok, so we finally shook the monkey.

[MickeyD]

Ok, so we finally spanked the monkey.
We? :mad:




:D

[ponder]

http://us6.memecdn.com/high-cheetah_o_407864.jpg

[Devill]

I don't know Devill the Sharks have this nasty habit of falling asleep in the games against these weaker sides. I mean just look at that match against the Lions that was tragic.

Fingers crossed though. Go Sharks!!!

Haha, told you so :p

Now I think that you guys have a better chance at winning your semi. The Reds are weak up front and with the loss of Cooper the sharks have an ideal setting to be the first SA side to win a semi in Aus / NZ since 1996 iirc (read it this morning somewhere).

Edit: http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/Super15/History-firmly-with-Stormers-20120715

[McT]

I'm dreaming of a win. The Sharks can do it. With Cooper sidelined, it certainly helps our cause. But I am hoping Bulls can pull off the win too.

[Devill]

I'm dreaming of a win. The Sharks can do it. With Cooper sidelined, it certainly helps our cause. But I am hoping Bulls can pull off the win too.

It would be awesome if the Bulls and the Sharks win but as I see it, the Sharks have a 30-40% chance of victory and the Bulls about 10%. Sad but true :o

[Pixual]

Just accept it. We ain't ever going to win this competition. Our best chance was stolen in 2007 by Steve Effin' Walsh and that Habana Banana.

[DJ...]

Just accept it. We ain't ever going to win this competition. Our best chance was stolen in 2007 by Steve Effin' Walsh and that Habana Banana.

All of s sudden I find myself getting a little more confident about our chances...

[Albereth]

I am more worried about the bulls than the sharks, judging by the weekend past's performances :o

I am sure the Sharks will win by around 10 points unless the cheetahs really step up and / or the weather is terrible.

The sharks are looking good on attack (great ball handling against the bulls - pop-passes, SBW flips etc etc:p) and the cheetahs have a very poor defensive record.

If the Bulls play like they did against the sharks the lions should beat them by about 3-5 points.

SBW learnt those passes from Butch James

[Devill]

SBW learnt those passes from Butch James

Can't be, Butch's arms are waaaaaay to stiff to to pull off those passes :D

[DJ...]

Been watching lots of Rugby League this side and I can assure you, those passes were learned from RFL. Still a stupid game though...:D

[FoXtroT]

Team to face the Reds

1. Tendai Mtawarira
2. Bismarck du Plessis
3. Jannie du Plessis
4. Willem Alberts
5. Anton Bresler
6. Keegan Daniel (Captain)
7. Marcell Coetzee
8. Ryan Kankowski
9. Charl McLeod
10. Frederic Michalak
11. Lwazi Mvovo
12. Tim Whitehead
13. Paul Jordaan
14. JP Pietersen
15. Louis Ludik

Replacements
16. Craig Burden
17. Wiehahn Herbst
18. Steven Sykes
19. Jacques Botes
20. Cobus Reinach
21. Meyer Bosman
22. Odwa Ndungane

[Rosaudio]

@ Sharks supporters, this may interest you. Found this signed jersey in a bar in a small island village in the Ionian islands, Greece. Dont recognise any signatures or know when the shirt is from but some of you might.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/rosswza/7597594386/in/photostream

[DJ...]

@ Sharks supporters, this may interest you. Found this signed jersey in a bar in a small island village in the Ionian islands, Greece. Dont recognise any signatures or know when the shirt is from but some of you might.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/rosswza/7597594386/in/photostream

Jacques Botes
Monty Dumond
Steven Sykes
Keegan Daniels
Skipper Badenhorst (I think)
Jean Deysel
Adrian Strauss
S'Bura Sithole (I think)
Waylon Murray
Bradley Swanepoel
Johan Muller

Those are the ones I can make out...

[SinghDude]

Great performancr by the Sharks.

Forwards were immense.

Just hope the jetlag won't let tiredness creep in against a fairly well organised Stormers defensive unit.

[NCalvo]

Heard there was a fire at Kings Park rugby stadium. Early estimates suggest the fire caused thousands of rands worth of improvements...

[DJ...]

Heard there was a fire at Kings Park rugby stadium. Early estimates suggest the fire caused thousands of rands worth of improvements...

Yip. Burned down a Stormers supporters' box full of Stormers' memorabilia...

[craigdoepie]

Great performancr by the Sharks.

Forwards were immense.

Just hope the jetlag won't let tiredness creep in against a fairly well organised Stormers defensive unit.

Here is hoping that it does creep in, did not watch the game on Saturday, but heard the Sharks had quiet a good game. Here's me hoping that the Stormers can actually play 2halfs and actually lift the trophy once and for all.

And maybe someone can organise a fire at Newlands, maybe then they will move to Cape Town stadium :)

[Devill]

Congrats to the Sharks, they outplayed the Reds and would have beaten 90% of all teams in Super Rugby on the day.

[Pixual]

I think that was the end of the good run from the boys. Now their heads will fill up with ideas that will let us all down when it matters most. Sorry, just being my usual cynical self! :)

[DJ...]

Sheezuz - there's a surprise prediction. Once again, I feel more confident all of a sudden...

[NCalvo]

Yip. Burned down a Stormers supporters' box full of Stormers' memorabilia...

We don't have a box there. You must have mistaken it for the Natal trophy cabinet....


Here is hoping that it does creep in, did not watch the game on Saturday, but heard the Sharks had quiet a good game. Here's me hoping that the Stormers can actually play 2halfs and actually lift the trophy once and for all.

And maybe someone can organise a fire at Newlands, maybe then they will move to Cape Town stadium :)

Can't burn down Newlands you will take SA Brewery's with it!!!

[Pixual]

Sheezuz - there's a surprise prediction. Once again, I feel more confident all of a sudden...

You gotta love my form though, dontcha?

[DJ...]

You gotta love my form though, dontcha?

At least you're consistent, I'll give you that...:D

[Pixual]

I have been a fan for too long (since the B-section days).

[NCalvo]

http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/s467/Cave_Dweller/Funny/575998_427535257284864_710379136_n.jpg

haha

[Pixual]

Holy crap. I say nothing!

[DarthCat]

go sharks :)

[kiepie]

Well done boys! Was nerve wrecking at the end!!

[DJ...]

Holy crap. I say nothing!

Please be negative about the final. We know you want to. It's just who you are.

Tell you what, I'll buy you a beer if The Sharks win it. We know you want the beer...

[Pixual]

There is no way in hell we can win it? Can we?

[McT]

There is no way in hell we can win it? Can we?

And when they do, it will be a truly epic win. Epic of the highest order. Epic. Really epic. The most difficult route. Travelling east, west and then east again.

I don't think many have our beloved team any hope of getting to the final. So why not go all the way and snot klap the Chiefs?

[Pixual]

If they win I will never, ever say a single bad thing about the players or coaching staff ever again. My promise.

The NRU? That's another story, but we won't let it sully things. :)

[McT]

If they win I will never, ever say a single bad thing about the players or coaching staff ever again. My promise.

The NRU? That's another story, but we won't let it sully things. :)

Thought I'd immortalise these words ... just in case :D

[Devill]

Congrats are in order.

Well done and best of luck to your team in the finals. Go kick some Kiwi ass.

[Pixual]

In the aftershock of actually winning this match I had forgotten the sight of that moron Bryan Habana sobbing on the pitch after the game like the frikking Maradona he is. I have never, since I watched my first rugby match in 1976 (SA vs NZ), ever seen any rugby player more deserving of public derision than that idiot. It seems to me that all he wants is public attention. Whether it's diving around like a soccer player on the pitch or crying like a baby, he's the *man* for the job.

2007 remembers you, you little cheat. Gotta love karma.

[McT]

Congrats are in order.

Well done and best of luck to your team in the finals. Go kick some Kiwi ass.

You are an amazing sportsman, Devill. ;)

[Devill]

In the aftershock of actually winning this match I had forgotten the sight of that moron Bryan Habana sobbing on the pitch after the game like the frikking Maradona he is. I have never, since I watched my first rugby match in 1976 (SA vs NZ), ever seen any rugby player more deserving of public derision than that idiot. It seems to me that all he wants is public attention. Whether it's diving around like a soccer player on the pitch or crying like a baby, he's the *man* for the job.

2007 remembers you, you little cheat. Gotta love karma.

ROFL :D

Fransie just needed to kick it into touch.....


You are an amazing sportsman, Devill. ;)

You have no idea how hard it is to say these things :p:D

[ponder]

2007 remembers you, you little cheat. Gotta love karma.

Refresh my memory please?

[Pixual]

With the assistance of his team mates and some completely blind officials, Habana "scored" a try that stole the S14 title from the Sharks in overtime. Remember?

The try came from several serious infringements that went unnoticed by Steve Walsh and his assistants.

[BobsLawnService]

Refresh my memory please?

Habana scored a highly controversial try in the last movement of the game in the final. I can't remember the exact infringements though.

Afterwards Walsh admitted that he saw them but didn't blow them because it would detract from the excitement and drama or somesuch nonsense.

You can't blame Habana for that though.

[Devill]

With the assistance of his team mates and some completely blind officials, Habana "scored" a try that stole the S14 title from the Sharks in overtime. Remember?

The try came from several serious infringements that went unnoticed by Steve Walsh and his assistants.


Habana scored a highly controversial try in the last movement of the game in the final. I can't remember the exact infringements though.

Afterwards Walsh admitted that he saw them but didn't blow them because it would detract from the excitement and drama or somesuch nonsense.

You can't blame Habana for that though.

Like I said.... Frans Steyn just needed to find touch. He did not. Bannana scored, Steyn converted, the sharks cried :D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6130DtEtuv4

Note that there was penalty adv against the Sharks.

[sand_man]

And 5 years later are still crying.

[McT]

Iirc, there was a big forward pass in the final movement.

[Devill]

Iirc, there was a big forward pass in the final movement.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIcWJtWtfbQ

There we go :)

[BobsLawnService]

All that said and done, you can't fault the player for playing to the whistle. So calling Habana a cheat is a bit harsh.

[Pixual]

True, but he is definitely a douchebag. I can't stand him.

[Devill]

True, but he is definitely a douchebag. I can't stand him.

He is a drama queen, but I do not care as long as he plays well when in a bok jersey.

[Mephisto_Helix]

Will be awake nice and early tomorrow to support mah team ...... give it your all Sharks, your fans are 100% behind you!

[SinghDude]

C'mmon sharks.

[FNfal]

C'mmon sharks.
Jaaa we getting run over at the moment :wtf:

[SinghDude]

Ja...

Its a fsking trainsmash

[Devill]

why take 3?!

[SinghDude]

Adding respectability to the scoreboard...

[McT]

/epic sigh

What could have been. At least we have some excellent rugby in the next weeks to look forward to.

[Devill]

McT - Rather be happy that your team showed the character they did and that a lot of players put up their hands to show that they belong in the Bok team, if not this season then sooner rather than later.

[Pixual]

The super 15 needs to be renamed to the Super Bore. It used to be a great competition, but since last year it's just a waste of time. The format is ridiculous. Surely there must be somebody at Sanzar with a bit of a marketing brain, or did the creatine burn away all semblance of creativity?

If we have to play more derbies then why don't they just include the Currie Cup into the competition? Or how about the top 2 teams from each region play each other in a 2nd round and whoever finishes in the top 2 spots contest a final? This current format is just wrong.

[GreGorGy]

The format is ridiculous....why don't they just include the Currie Cup into the competition?

Look, I couldn't agree more that the format is stupid. If the CC was incorporated, then the sharks (not province, thanks to the playof semi) would logically be CC champions. Now, do you see SARU (with its wide WP panel) approving anything like that? Province needs its conference cups to make themselves look like winners.

[Pixual]

I think I watched a total of about 6 games out of this entire season's line up, compared with at least 4 times that amount when all the teams still played each other. I won't go to the stadium to watch either, especially not when it's a derby game. That is what the Currie Cup is for. Why the hell would we want to watch the same opponents 4 times in one season?

Whoever thought up this appalling competition is an enemy of rugby.

[Mephisto_Helix]

Man this bunch of forwards needs either some play time or way more practice, shaky backline too but there are at least some nice sparks there. Penatly count isn't a good indication, coz it's a dick ref, but a lot of mistakes that can hopefully be ironed out by the youngsters.

[CHURCHILL]

Man this bunch of forwards needs either some play time or way more practice, shaky backline too but there are at least some nice sparks there. Penatly count isn't a good indication, coz it's a dick ref, but a lot of mistakes that can hopefully be ironed out by the youngsters.

Agreed, not bad from our B/C team, good to see we have some potential depth

[McT]

Agreed, not bad from our B/C team, good to see we have some potential depth

Didn't realise you were a fellow Shark supporter? Got agree with your sentiment though. The team had travelled from Durban to Brisbane to Cape Town to Hamilton and back to Cape Town. They've won 4 out of 5 too.

Lost a few of their number one players to the Bok squad and still found the ability to hold off determined Wee Pee team in their back yard in appalling weather. I'm proud of the team and their awesome achievements. Well done gents :)

[DJ...]

I'm period if the team and their awesome achievements.

http://penwars.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/img_global_logo.gif?w=500

[McT]

http://penwars.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/img_global_logo.gif?w=500

Fr!gg!ng Samsung Swype :o

[McT]

http://www.supersport.com/rugby/currie-cup/news/120822/Another_Sharks_team_chooses_itself


The way the Sharks have been playing just lately they shouldn’t really need a coach to select the team, with all the players doing their talking where it matters most – on the field of play.

Unfortunately for the Sharks they continue to leak players to the Springboks, with hooker Craig Burden, who scored two tries in the ABSA Currie Cup opener against Western Province, now in Argentina with Jean de Villiers’ team rather than preparing for Saturday’s match against the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus.

Monde Hadebe comes into the side in Burden’s absence, and with Bismarck du Plessis’ injury likely to keep Burden involved with the Boks for much of the domestic season, the young Hadebe, a member of last year’s Sharks

under-21 team, can expect to get an extended run. Coach John Plumtree has spoken of a possible call to an overseas player, but it is understood that if a new hooker does fly in, he will probably act as back-up rather than necessarily wear the No 2 jersey.

The only other change to the team that beat the MTN Lions 30-14 at Mr Price Kings Park last Saturday night sees Marius Joubert coming in for the injured Meyer Bosman.

Franco Marais comes in as the back-up to Hadebe at hooker. The Sharks have five forward reserves for a match where, given the recent form of the two teams, they should start as strong favourites even without the services of Burden.

SHARKS: Louis Ludik, Odwa Ndungane, Paul Jordaan, Marius Joubert, S’bura Sithole, Riaan Viljoen, Charl McLeod, Jacques Botes, Jean Deysel (captain), Francois Kleinhans, Anton Bresler, Steven Sykes, Wiehahn Herbst, Monde Hadebe, Dale Chadwick.
Replacements: Franco Marais, Julian Redelinghuys, Jandre Marais, Lubabalo Mtembu, Brynard Stander, Cobus Reinach, Gouws Prinsloo.

An interesting team. Going to be a tough outing against the Bulls. Hopefully it'll be a "level" playing field.

[sand_man]

Sean veldsman is pretty clueless.. I mean he's proven it many times in the past. How he can be officiating in any matters regarding rugby is a mystery to me..

Jebb was all over Jean, Jean slaps/pushes Jebb off, Jebb punches Jean, Jebb gets a red, Tmo veldsman rules Jean provoked him and Jean gets a yellow. Wtf..???

[MickeyD]

Sean veldsman is pretty clueless.. I mean he's proven it many times in the past. How he can be officiating in any matters regarding rugby is a mystery to me..

Jebb was all over Jean, Jean slaps/pushes Jebb off, Jebb punches Jean, Jebb gets a red, Tmo veldsman rules Jean provoked him and Jean gets a yellow. Wtf..???
Jebb almost broke Jean's neck...

[MickeyD]

And another red card for a WP player.... roid rage?

[sand_man]

And another red card for a WP player.... roid rage?

Tmo getting very involved with the new rules. Players need to wake up to this fact very fast.

[sand_man]

And another province player binned for a late tackle.

[Mephisto_Helix]

Thugs got shown well and proper

[SinghDude]

Boys joint top.


Good bonus point win.

[Mephisto_Helix]

Guys attacking so well and then fscking it up at the end :(

[Mephisto_Helix]

Can please tell Chadwick to fsck off now? Please, please, please. He's been a lazy d00s for too long now.

[ssvoogel]

Did we lose tonight or did the game get stolen from us? The first try by the Lions (the game-breaker) was just a piece of awful refereeing. 2 knock-ons, a player in an offside position at the kick by Jantjies and the TMO just ignores it. Great work!

The real issue however, is us not able to play for the full 80 minutes at altitude. It happened at Loftus, it happens now at Ellis Park. I really hope the Lions lose at least once since we will not win when the final is played in Jo'burg.

[D4N]

Did we lose tonight /SNIP

Ja. 28 - 5 = 23 > 22

[ssvoogel]

Yeah, both tries should have been disallowed.

[DWPTA]

Did we lose tonight or did the game get stolen from us? The first try by the Lions (the game-breaker) was just a piece of awful refereeing. 2 knock-ons, a player in an offside position at the kick by Jantjies and the TMO just ignores it. Great work!

The real issue however, is us not able to play for the full 80 minutes at altitude. It happened at Loftus, it happens now at Ellis Park. I really hope the Lions lose at least once since we will not win when the final is played in Jo'burg.

The AR ruled that the ball was not knocked on in the first instance and IMO he had the best view whether Kriel knocked it on or not.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C68seo-jaDk

[DWPTA]

PS. Should we revisit the so called Alberts try in the final last year? Mistakes does and will always happen.

[MickeyD]

I reckon if it carries on raining as it is now, then the ref might just abandon the game! :eek:

[Mephisto_Helix]

Was wetter last time, it won't be called ;)

[MickeyD]

Was wetter last time, it won't be called ;)
But there it rained before the game...

[Mephisto_Helix]

Absolutely fscking ridiculous that they said they was intentional, the guy was fscking falling, idiots. Any way to snake the Sharks and they do it.

[MickeyD]

Pathetic by the TV ref.

[Mephisto_Helix]

See that fscker of a match fixer TMO trying to say it's a penalty and arguing with the Ref !

[McT]

Anyone saw who got sent off and why? Looks like the Sharks did very well to hold on for the win.

[MickeyD]

Peter Dixon was sent for allegedly deliberately kicking a Bulls' player who was lying on the ground... this while he was falling over and his eyes were closed and he had no clue where his feet were going.

[SlowInternet]

Peter Dixon was sent for allegedly deliberately kicking a Bulls' player who was lying on the ground... this while he was falling over and his eyes were closed and he had no clue where his feet were going.

The TV ref was BAD ! That was never a red card ! (and I'm not even a shark supporter)

[Pixual]

I think it is a travesty of the system that these moron blue balls are in a position to actually win the CC. How can the powers that be deem semi finals necessary in a competition where there are only 6 teams playing? Honestly, it's like I'm on crazy pills all the time when I see what's going on with Rugby Union these days.

[GreGorGy]

I think it is a travesty of the system that these moron blue balls are in a position to actually win the CC. How can the powers that be ...

Those "morons" are smart enough to have control of the powers that be?

Look, I do agree that this format - like everything else SARU has touched in recent times - is fkn stupid. Taking it out on my team though is a little unfair. Entitlement is no route to victory. And when it becomes one, that victory is hollow and meaningless: just ask WP supporters how proud they are of their S15 conference cup...

[Pixual]

Hey, this is a Sharks thread, bashing blue balls is mandatory!

[GreGorGy]

Hey, this is a Sharks thread, bashing blue balls is mandatory!

Ah - ok then - lemme pencil in my result for the weekend :)

[Devill]

I think it is a travesty of the system that these moron blue balls are in a position to actually win the CC. How can the powers that be deem semi finals necessary in a competition where there are only 6 teams playing? Honestly, it's like I'm on crazy pills all the time when I see what's going on with Rugby Union these days.

I do not really understand the problem. Would you prefer a points system that after X matches the team with the most points win?

[Pixual]

I do not really understand the problem. Would you prefer a points system that after X matches the team with the most points win?

Yes. Play-offs are a lottery.

[Devill]

So then the WP could actually win something that matters?

[sand_man]

With the shortened Currie Cup this year and only 6 teams contesting it perhaps a final between the top 2 placed teams would have been sufficient.

[Jab]

I think it is a travesty of the system that these moron blue balls are in a position to actually win the CC. How can the powers that be deem semi finals necessary in a competition where there are only 6 teams playing? Honestly, it's like I'm on crazy pills all the time when I see what's going on with Rugby Union these days.

http://i1105.photobucket.com/albums/h360/jab100/fear.jpg

[Devill]

http://i1105.photobucket.com/albums/h360/jab100/fear.jpg

ok that was funny :)

I still think the Sharks have a 60% chance vs a 40% for the Bulls.

[Pixual]

No, not fear... just a knowledge brought on by decades of being a Natal rugby supporter...

[McT]

Sharks team for the semi final:

15 Louis Ludik, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Paul Jordaan, 12 Tim Whitehead, 11 Lwazi Mvovo, 10 Pat Lambie, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Keegan Daniel (captain), 7 Jean Deysel, 6 Marcell Coetzee, 5 Anton Bresler, 4 Jandre Marais, 3 Jannie du Plessis
2 Kyle Cooper, 1 Dale Chadwick

Substitutes: 16 Craig Burden, 17 Tendai Mtawarira, 18 Wiehahn Herbst, 19 Steven Sykes / Peet Marais, 20 Willem Alberts
21 Charl McLeod, 22 Meyer Bosman

[Hemi300c]

It's a pakslae

[Mephisto_Helix]

An absolute creaming for the dirty swines ..... so proud of the Sharks, such a game in the wet.

[MickeyD]

a game in the wet.
This was the deciding factor. It would have been much closer on a dry, hard pitch.

[Mephisto_Helix]

It would have been a wider gap for the Sharks had it been dry. They would have moved that ball even more than today ;)

[dabbler]

Dirty buggers those bulls... glad they got beaten ( and I'm not talking about the mud).

[FoXtroT]

This was the deciding factor. It would have been much closer on a dry, hard pitch.

I highly doubt it. The fact that it was wet played in the Bulls favour as it suits their up and under game plan perfectly, alas the Sharks outclassed them in that area as well.

[DJ...]

We capitalised on a lot of their mistakes that they made because of the conditions, so I get what MickeyD was saying. Fortunately though we were better in all departments, regardless of Naas' little moist-eyeball, post-match tirade...

[Pixual]

I didn't watch it live, but extremely happy that the scum bags are out. They have the mentality of retarded dogs. If you can't beat them, beat them up.

[PhreeMe]

I was at the game and enjoyed every minute. Even though the stadium was not full, the atmosphere was great!
Overall it was a great game to watch considering the conditions. A lot more running of the ball than I expected.

Can someone tell me what the commentators/TMO were saying about that "stomping". All the replays on the big screen made it look pretty grim.... I'd also like to know what was said when Lawrence called the captains to explain.

Otherwise just happy that we have a home final. It would be great if trophy stays as well :D

[FoXtroT]

If you are referring to the incident with Kruger. The TMO seemed to think that Kruger accidentally stood on the Sharks players back and that the tussle afterwards was not worthy of any sanction. The ref agreed called the two captains over who also agreed with that assessment although Keegan Daniel cheekily asked for a yellow card :).

[Randhir]

There was also a bit of suggestion of kneeing a player in the face, but was rules that the player was trying to step over the Sharks player on the ground and accidental contact. Seemed like the correct decision.

[MickeyD]

There was also a bit of suggestion of kneeing a player in the face, but was rules that the player was trying to step over the Sharks player on the ground and accidental contact. Seemed like the correct decision.

Agree... I don't think there was any intent and that it was purely accidental.

[PhreeMe]

If you are referring to the incident with Kruger. The TMO seemed to think that Kruger accidentally stood on the Sharks players back and that the tussle afterwards was not worthy of any sanction. The ref agreed called the two captains over who also agreed with that assessment although Keegan Daniel cheekily asked for a yellow card :).

Thanks bud. I was literally laughing at the reaction it received the first time it went up on the big screen. I did however think it was a yellow for sure, until they showed the reverse angle. Then the knee was shown and got an ever better reaction :D

If the concensus is that it wasn't intentional though, then all is well.

[Devill]

Just aiding some Sharks fans with some information for in case the Sharks lose this comming Saturday (altough I doubt it).

http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/CurrieCup/Peyper-to-ref-Currie-Cup-final-20121022

[Pixual]

Agree... I don't think there was any intent and that it was purely accidental.

Disagree. All Bulls players are genetically pre-disposed to cause as much *** as they can. Especially when they're being beaten...

[MickeyD]

Disagree. All Bulls players are genetically pre-disposed to cause as much *** as they can. Especially when they're being beaten...
Read my earlier posts about the Bulls' game plan.... this time it was accidental. :p

[Pixual]

So, who's making predictions for the final?

I think one of two things is going to happen: it's either going to be a stalemate type of game with each team picking up scores on penalties, or it's going to be an open game with both teams giving it plenty out wide and one of them will out-gun the other quite dramatically. Exactly which team might do that is not clear, but the odds do look to be in favour of the Sharks.

Personally I think the only way the Sharks can lose this game is if they do their usual trick of being complacent at home and just not caring about the outcome. They are a much more skilful outfit than WP and on paper they should blitz them. WP don't seem to have the game-breaking ability of other top teams, but they certainly do have the "never-say-die" attitude that has seen them into the final this year. And that has been the downfall of many a Sharks team before this one.

Both teams certainly want that cup though, so it's going to be a worthwhile final to watch! Thank God no teams from Gauteng are in it this year... :-)

[sand_man]

Sharks just need to carry on doing what they been doing since the 6th week of the Super 15.

What a remarkable season they've had.

After the 1st 5 rounds of Super 15 you wouldn't have said they'd be finalists in both competitions this season!!

[KOPITE]

So, who's making predictions for the final?

I think one of two things is going to happen: it's either going to be a stalemate type of game with each team picking up scores on penalties, or it's going to be an open game with both teams giving it plenty out wide and one of them will out-gun the other quite dramatically. Exactly which team might do that is not clear, but the odds do look to be in favour of the Sharks.

Personally I think the only way the Sharks can lose this game is if they do their usual trick of being complacent at home and just not caring about the outcome. They are a much more skilful outfit than WP and on paper they should blitz them. WP don't seem to have the game-breaking ability of other top teams, but they certainly do have the "never-say-die" attitude that has seen them into the final this year. And that has been the downfall of many a Sharks team before this one.

Both teams certainly want that cup though, so it's going to be a worthwhile final to watch! Thank God no teams from Gauteng are in it this year... :-)

Game is going to be won at the breakdown imho. sharks will have the edge in the front row. if wp can maintain the sharks at the breakdown then they have a chance. defence is also going to play a crucial part in the game. if guys like eben, vermeulen, habana, de jong and aplon produce on the day then sharks will be on the back foot. AC seems to know the type of game plan Plumtree is going to play. i think wp are going to spice their game up a bit to catch the sharks on the back foot. very intriging game. i still say wp have a chance if they can keep the sharks out the 1st half. wp always come back 2nd hald with an onslaught. the winner is going to take with less then 7 points.

[Devill]

I think sharks by 9+ if the sharks play at 90-100%.

But let us not forget lessons learned last year.....

[ClintZA]

If the Sharks play at 100%, and it's not raining, I reckon they'll win by even more, around 15 - 20 points.

[Pixual]

Game is going to be won at the breakdown imho. sharks will have the edge in the front row. if wp can maintain the sharks at the breakdown then they have a chance. defence is also going to play a crucial part in the game. if guys like eben, vermeulen, habana, de jong and aplon produce on the day then sharks will be on the back foot. AC seems to know the type of game plan Plumtree is going to play. i think wp are going to spice their game up a bit to catch the sharks on the back foot. very intriging game. i still say wp have a chance if they can keep the sharks out the 1st half. wp always come back 2nd hald with an onslaught. the winner is going to take with less then 7 points.

Nah, I don't think the loose game is going to be that much of an influence. What will be telling is what either side does with whatever possession they get. The Sharks defence is going to be very tough for WP to crack if they defend like they did against the Bulls in the semi. Aplon is the biggest threat in this regard.

It's looking like a wet game again...

[FoXtroT]

Team for final

15. Louis Ludik
14. JP Pietersen
13. Paul Jordaan
12. Tim Whitehead
11. Lwazi Mvovo
10. Pat Lambie
9. Cobus Reinach
8. Keegan Daniel (Capt)
7. Willem Alberts
6. Marcell Coetzee
5. Anton Bresler
4. Steven Sykes
3. Jannie du Plessis
2. Craig Burden
1. Tendai Mtawarira

Replacements
16. Kyle Cooper
17. Wiehahn Herbst
18. Jandre Marais
19. Jean Deysel
20. Charl McLeod
21. Meyer Bosman
22. Odwa Ndungane

My opinion is they should of started with the same team as last week. I think the young guns played well enough to merit a start.

[Pixual]

Deysel and Ndungane start on the bench?

Say, what has happened with François Steyn? Is he injured or did he not qualify to play the CC?

[DJ...]

Deysel and Ndungane start on the bench?

Say, what has happened with François Steyn? Is he injured or did he not qualify to play the CC?

Frans has a pretty bad ankle injury...

[Pixual]

Oh well...

[Mila]

:cry: well done weepee

[Mephisto_Helix]

Uhm, Sharks supporters thread :wtf:

[MickeyD]

Uhm, Sharks supporters thread :wtf:
/is ginger

/is confused! :p

[Mila]

Pfft. I am. Just said well done to all the lurker a checking if we have sour grapes.

[MickeyD]

Pfft. I am. Just said well done to all the lurker a checking if we have sour grapes.

Aahhhh.... very sound ginger logic! :D

[Mila]

:D

Ginger logic... I like :D

[Mephisto_Helix]

Makes sense, WeePee thread not even anywhere to be found coz they all lurk here ...... closet fans.

[Mila]

Lol! Shame... It's been 11 years.

[mmmig]

Sharks are always the favorites to win their semi finals and lose the finals :( .

[FoXtroT]

I really think they should of started with the same team from last week. We did this last year as well, we put in the returning Boks and they just don't have the drive to win :mad:

[Pixual]

You could tell from the moment they scored that try that they believed they could win the game. From then on the Sharks didn't put enough thinking into the game they were playing. It was oh so close at the end though, wasn't it?

My analysis: a bloody good final to watch. No one wants to see a team get pitchforked in a final.

[Pr⊕phet]

Sharks are always the favorites to win their semi finals and lose the finals :( .

Sad when your head gets so beeg :erm:

[Mephisto_Helix]

Funny how people think that how the media carries on is the way the team carries on ........ same people who think that fans are embryo linked to the players.

[undesign]

Brilliant final to watch, well done to the Sharks also. Sometimes, unfortunately, the pressure if being the favourite can work against you, more so when playing against a young side who psychologically has a "clean slate".


Funny how people think that how the media carries on is the way the team carries on ........ same people who think that fans are embryo linked to the players.

Blah blah blah... :)

[Mephisto_Helix]

Edit - not even worth it

[APoc184]

Edit - not even worth it

Come now. Would love to hear your thoughts on the game.

And no, there are no hidden agendas. Would just like to hear from a loyal Sharks supporter what went wrong or right for WP on the day.

[ToxicBunny]

Come now. Would love to hear your thoughts on the game.

And no, there are no hidden agendas. Would just like to hear from a loyal Sharks supporter what went wrong or right for WP on the day.

From my point of view, handling errors were a BIG part of the Sharks problem (esp in the LineOuts), we also tried to change our style of play which never works.

But, WP also managed to make the best of Peypers cockups, which the Sharks didn't.

Overall, ref's mess ups aside, WP played better rugby and deserved to win, much as it pains me to say it.

[APoc184]

From my point of view, handling errors were a BIG part of the Sharks problem (esp in the LineOuts), we also tried to change our style of play which never works.

But, WP also managed to make the best of Peypers cockups, which the Sharks didn't.

Overall, ref's mess ups aside, WP played better rugby and deserved to win, much as it pains me to say it.

Look, Craig Burden had a shocker. He seemed so afraid of Etzebeth at a time that he was throwing line out ball to Lambie.

The handling errors can also be attributed to WP defence. They target the ball and they do it well.

The turning point for me was when they replaced Jannie with Herbst. Sharks were demolishing the WP scrum up until that point and when Herbst came on WP really started getting momentum and front foot ball. At the same time the Sharks started getting a bit tired and slipped a few tackles. Especially on Ntubeni and Fourie.

Hats off to Catrakilis for taking control of the game. Showed plenty of BMT and I read last night that WP are going to try and convince him to stay and not leave for the Kings.

RE: Jaco Peyper. I know him personally and I know he will not be completely happy with his performance. I don't blame him for missing a few things in a high paced match like that. It did not change the course of the match however.

One thing is for sure. Lambie MUST be our first choice flyhalf on the EOYT.

[Mephisto_Helix]

Like I said in the CC thread, Wee Pee were just that much hungrier than the Sharks. You could see they were playing for that cup (don't blame them with the vicious media they have). They absorbed the nerves into playing whereas the Sharks let it rattle them. I agree with what others have said all over the place, some changes should not have been made from last weeks team.

[FoXtroT]

Sounds like Butch James might be finishing out his career at the Sharks as Flyhalf cover for the Super 15 season.

[McT]

Sad how many Lions players have already left for other franchises. Don't blame them one bit. I do blame SARU & Cheeky for this :/

[Devill]

One thing is for sure. Lambie MUST be our first choice flyhalf on the EOYT.

EOYT thread has a question about Lambie as well as my opinion.


Sad how many Lions players have already left for other franchises. Don't blame them one bit. I do blame SARU & Cheeky for this :/

I really hope that the Lions players that are on loan to other provinces but have the option to move permanently, return to the lions after the Super Season.

[FoXtroT]

I understand you may not be specifically talking about Butch but just to clarify anyway he was intending to retire at the end of the 2012 season anyway but he has rather decided to give it an extra 6 months at Super Rugby level.

[Mephisto_Helix]

lets dust this sucker off ......



Team for the Crusaders match on Friday night, Steyn at fullback - good move!

15 Frans Steyn, 14 Odwa Ndungane, 13 Paul Jordaan, 12 Meyer Bosman, 11 JP Pietersen, 10 Pat Lambie, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Keegan Daniel (capt), 7 Marcell Coetzee, 6 Jacques Botes, 5 Franco van der Merwe, 4 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Kyle Cooper, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.

Replacements: 16 Craig Burden, 17 Wiehahn Herbst, 18 Anton Bresler, 19 Ryan Kankowski, 20 Charl McLeod, 21 Riaan Viljoen, 22 Louis Ludik/S’bura Sithole

[CHURCHILL]

lets dust this sucker off ......



Team for the Crusaders match on Friday night, Steyn at fullback - good move!

15 Frans Steyn, 14 Odwa Ndungane, 13 Paul Jordaan, 12 Meyer Bosman, 11 JP Pietersen, 10 Pat Lambie, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Keegan Daniel (capt), 7 Marcell Coetzee, 6 Jacques Botes, 5 Franco van der Merwe, 4 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Kyle Cooper, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.

Replacements: 16 Craig Burden, 17 Wiehahn Herbst, 18 Anton Bresler, 19 Ryan Kankowski, 20 Charl McLeod, 21 Riaan Viljoen, 22 Louis Ludik/S’bura Sithole

I would drop Ndungane, and put Ludik or even R Viljoen on the wing, and also drop Jannie du Plessis for Wiehahn Herbst.

[Bosvark@]

Flippin AWESOME Sharks vs Crusaders game...! Well done Sharks

[ScottulusMaximus]

Super PAAAAAT!!!! All the difference in his kicking tonight. We won but wasnt a great performance, and for the love of all thats holy put Steyn back at centre. He was clueless at fullback and Jordaan and Bosman couldn't close the gaps or defend and let Fruene run straight through them. Jordaan is amasing on attack but needs to shore up his defensive game asap...

[DJ...]

Pat had a very mediocre game tonight apart from the boot. Him and Reinarch cost us a lot of forward momentum in the game we tried to play. Had to resort to tight movement up the middle in the second half which worked, not because the initial tactic was off but because 9 & 10 were off imo.

Moved the ball up the middle well, and used good crash ball by our big replacements to draw players in further down their backline. We were then more effective at creating space and inducing the penalties in our favour.

But an incredibly exciting game nonetheless. Glad I got to witness it from the stadium. Woohoo...

[McT]

I Great game by the Sharks. Held their nerve to take the win. First time since 2007 and only their 4th in 18 against the Crusaders.


Pat had a very mediocre game tonight apart from the boot. Him and Reinarch cost us a lot of forward momentum in the game we tried to play. Had to resort to tight movement up the middle in the second half which worked, not because the initial tactic was off but because 9 & 10 were off imo.

Moved the ball up the middle well, and used good crash ball by our big replacements to draw players in further down their backline. We were then more effective at creating space and inducing the penalties in our favour.

But an incredibly exciting game nonetheless. Glad I got to witness it from the stadium. Woohoo...

It was an exciting game with loads of moves to keep the watcher hooked. Just wish the Sharks could get over the advantage line a little more often.

[dabbler]

Flippin AWESOME Sharks vs Crusaders game...! Well done Sharks

+1

[alternate]

Watched the Sharks beat the Crusaders at Kings Park, now I got tickets to see them beat the Stormers! :D

[alternate]

Seems I made the mistake of going to Newlands again. Every time I've had a terrible experience with the home "fans". Never again.

[GreGorGy]

Seems I made the mistake of going to Newlands again. Every time I've had a terrible experience with the home "fans". Never again.

Elaborate - are they beating people or booing or what?

[DJ...]

http://www.sharksrugby.co.za/news#article1884174


The Board of Directors of The Sharks (Pty) Ltd are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr John Smit as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The Sharks (Pty) Ltd, effective 1st July 2013. John takes over the reins from current CEO, Mr Brian van Zyl who will mentor John until his pre-agreed retirement date of 28th February 2014.

Having joined The Sharks on the 1st February 1994, Brian van Zyl will have served The Sharks with distinction for 20 years. With his sound administration and business knowledge, he has worked tirelessly to ensure that The Sharks have become not only one of the most financially sound unions but also a sporting brand of international acclaim. He has commanded the respect of the South African Rugby Union, team management, past and present players, staff of The Sharks (Pty) Ltd and the other stakeholders whom he has interacted with over the years.

Mr Stephen Saad, the Chairman of The Sharks Board of Directors, says, “On behalf of the Board of The Sharks (Pty) Ltd, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Brian for his invaluable contribution to The Sharks. His knowledge, experience and understanding of the game and its administration is outstanding. At the end of his tenure, he leaves The Sharks in good stead and we salute him for the many years of dedication, commitment and service that he has given, not only to The Sharks (Pty) Ltd, but to rugby in South Africa.

“In the past 2 decades under his stewardship, The Sharks have become the most followed provincial rugby franchise in the southern hemisphere. He has the respect of both supporters and adversaries alike. Brian, we salute your unwavering service to The Sharks and thank you for your continued support including the mentorship of John.”

“John Smit’s appointment marks the dawn of a new and exciting era at The Sharks (Pty) Ltd,” said Saad. We look forward to welcoming the favourite son of South African Rugby to his new role as CEO. We pledge our support and commitment to him and have every confidence that he will embrace his new role, with the same leadership, spirit and vigour that he displayed as the most capped Springbok captain and player of all time.”

Having spent thirteen years of his professional career with The Sharks, John makes a welcome return to a province that he loves and where it all began for him. He has become the most respected and decorated rugby player in South African history and his achievements both on and off the field are well documented. He is a natural leader and has an innate ability to rally his troops and get the best out of his team. When he takes up his new position, John will inherit an experienced management support team at The Sharks, who will offer him guidance and advice as he settles into his new position.

To this end, Leigh Heard who has spent 21 years with The Sharks (Pty) Ltd as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) will assume the responsibility of Chief Operating Officer (COO). Leigh’s role will include both financial and commercial functions and will help provide continuity and preserve the corporate memory of the successful Sharks management team.

The Sharks Head Coach, John Plumtree has stated, “On behalf of team management and the players, I extend our congratulations to John on his appointment. Over the years, many of us have shared special memories with John and we look forward to working with and supporting him in his new capacity.”

The Sharks current CEO, Brian van Zyl has said, “I wish to congratulate John on his appointment and wish him the very best in his new role. He was an inspirational captain and team man and I know that I leave The Sharks in good hands. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board of The Sharks (Pty) Ltd, stakeholders and my staff for their assistance and support over the years. I have a few months to go before retirement and will use this time to ensure that the black and white baton is securely placed in John’s hands and so contribute to the successful Sharks legacy. I leave a proud man.”

Stephen Saad concluded by saying, “John is currently playing for Saracens in England and upon his return to South Africa, The Sharks will hold a press conference.”

John Smit’s Stats and Achievements
Was capped 111 times for the Springboks in a 12 year international career (2000-2011);
Represented South Africa at three Rugby World Cups;
Captained the Springboks on 83 occasions;
Represented The Sharks on 186 occasions (61 Currie Cup and 125 Super Rugby caps) between 1998 and 2011;
Captained the Springboks to Rugby World Cup glory in 2007;
Tri-Nations winner in 2004 and 2009;
Captained the Springboks in their series win against the British and Irish Lions in 2009;
Retired as the most-capped Springbok of all time and the most-capped international captain of all-time.

Issued by The Sharks (Pty) Ltd

Congrats, John. And a warm farewell to Brian Van Zyl...

[Pixual]

"warm farewell"?

Not from me. He's a greedy suit.

Hopefully John Smit will put sport first.

[BobsLawnService]

So Plumtree is benching a whole bunch of senior players (Kankowski, Du Plessis and Steyn.) because they're "out of form". Do you think that anyone is going to ever realise that it is the senior coaching staff that is struggling to find form?

Seriously, if he keeps breaking world class players then treating them like **** I seriously see them saying "F this" and moving to different clubs. Then talent willing to play for the Sharks will just start drying up.

Anyway, just my "The sky is falling rant for the evening."

[Mephisto_Helix]

Just read that ...... what the bloody hell is the monkey trio playing at? I'm really hoping against all hope that those bozo's get shown the door and we get some proper coaching staff in there.

[APoc184]

At least the booze ban has been lifted.

[FoXtroT]

Well for one, I agree Steyn should be benched. He has a serious attitude problem at the moment it seems and woefully under performing. With regards to Kanko and Jannie, I don't think he 'dropped' them like its being reported in the media. If you read the statement Plum gave it is to give them a rest, especially Jannie, and for the more physical approach of Deysel with regards to Kanko.

[McT]

Just read that ...... what the bloody hell is the monkey trio playing at? I'm really hoping against all hope that those bozo's get shown the door and we get some proper coaching staff in there.

Perhaps you need to have a word with Smit, John Smit ;)

[KOPITE]

Silence of the Lamb

[Ekstasis]

I'm not a shark supporter....I troll shark supporter threads to say..

naaaaah-naah-naah-naaaaaah-naaaaaaaaah!

[FoXtroT]

Wait, didnt the Cheetahs beat you as well?

[Ekstasis]

Wait, didnt the Cheetahs beat you as well?Yes, don't get me started :p

[KOPITE]

Wait, didnt the Cheetahs beat you as well?

not at our home ground :p

[Pixual]

Time for Reece-Edwards and Bashford (or whatever his name is) to pack their bags and feck off back to their jobs as estate agents.

That was just p*ss-poor. They haven't scored a try since that walloping of the Force.

[DJ...]

Bashie has been a coach all of his adult life. And always will be.

Fscking ref...:mad:

[Pixual]

The backline is clueless.

[APoc184]

Looks like John Smit's first job will be to fire Plumtree...

But seriously now. What's up with the Sharks? Their attack is as toothless as a redneck shark....

Riaan Viljoen looked decent the whole game and Jordaan, but only in the last 10 seconds. Kyle Cooper had a few good runs.

Think Beast going off was a big blow. Cheetahs totally dominated at scrum time when that happened.

[McT]

Second game in a row I missed. Decoder on the fritz. :(

With the tour of down under to come, they need a major wake up or it's going to be an epic disaster.

[FoXtroT]

This injury toll is a serious problem as well now. We now have only 2 real Boks in our forward pack and 3 in the backline, some of whom are seriously off form. I just don't understand how we can go from playing such great rugby last season to a completely retarded style of play now.

[Mephisto_Helix]

I really do think that there is an issue with the coaches ..... not just that they are fscking clueless. I reckon the players and coaches are clashing on shyte. Monkey trio must go, some slaapgat imports must go and I think we can only then get back together.

[BobsLawnService]

No tries in three matches again.

I wonder who Plumtree is going to blame now? The last few seasons have been incredibly frustrating as a Sharks supporter. We have the players to be scoring tries anp putting teams to the sword but the coaches are just unable to come up with creative, attacking gameplans.

Grrrrrr.

[OrbitalDawn]

Well they got to the final last year? Doesn't that count for anything?

[Pixual]

The person who needs firing most of all is Rudolf Strauli. How that douchebag holds onto power at the NRU continues to baffle me. As the director of rugby he's in charge of appointing coaches and the structures around the way everything works. Get rid of him first and I think the provincial team spirit will improve. Right now it's too painful to watch.

[sand_man]

For me the problem with Sharks rugby is the lack of home grown talent.

There doesn't seem to be much depth in Natal rugby at the moment. The vast majority of the 2013 Super 15 squad seem to be from everywhere other than Natal.

Schooled and/or born in the Free State
Frans Steyn
Paul Jordaan
Cobus Reinach
Meyer Bosman
Du Plessies brothers
Jean Deysel

Schooled and/or born in the Eastern Cape
Ryan Kankowski
Daniel Keegan
Mvovo Lwazi
Tim Whitehead
Odwa Ndungane
Allan Dell

Schooled and/or born in the PWV
Willem Alberts
Louis Ludek
Franco Van Der Merwe
Charl McLeod

Schooled and/or born in the Western Cape:
Pieter-Steph du Toit
JP Pieterson


Other:
Jacques Botes - Nelspruit and Pumas
Wiehahn Herbst - Klerksdorp and Klerksdorp high
Jandre Marais - Welkom and Welkom Gymnasium
Peet Marais - Welkom and Welkom Gymnasium
Tendai Mtawarira - Zimbabwe






24/35 started playing their rugby somewhere other than Natal.

Anyway, I wouldn't write off their campaign just yet. As Orbitaldawn elluded to earlier, they made the finals last year and were quite sensational in the 2nd half of the campaign. No team was ever going to win a semi in Oz one Saturday and win a final in NZ the following Saturday!

Considering the number of players missing through injury the team is doing relatively well. Supporters maybe need to be a little forgiving, less critical, less fickle and more supportive and understanding.

You guys think you got it bad? Try being a Lions supporter!!