Sharks wing Edwill van der Merwe says he will have to bring his “A game” to Loftus Versfeld for Saturday’s Vodacom URC clash against the Bulls.
The Sharks are coming off a 34-22 defeat to the Lions at Ellis Park last weekend that left them 10th on the log and a point behind the eighth-placed Bulls, who have a game in hand.
“We were all disappointed with the result and the performance we put out,” Van der Merwe said on Tuesday. “We know that’s not our standards.
“This week there’s been a big focus on collectively fixing it. There were some unforced errors and other areas that needed cleaning up, but the prep has been good and now we’re looking to rectify it on the weekend.”
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While forward dominance is key in any South African derby, the aerial battle is often decisive on the Highveld – an area where Van der Merwe was candid about his performance at Ellis Park.
“Where the kicking game comes in for me is the aerial contest. It’s something I work really hard on,” he said.
“On the weekend I wasn’t that sharp in that area, and it’s something we rely on a lot. Personally, I want to be better in that space.
“There are Springbok wings on the other side as well, so it’ll be a good contest and I have to be on my A game.”
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The Sharks have the likes of Bok veteran Makazole Mapimpi and youngster Jaco Williams out wide, while the Bulls can pick from Bok duo Kurt-Lee Arendse and Canan Moodie and former Junior Bok Cheswill Jooste.
Van der Merwe had fulsome praise for Williams.
“Jaco is an exciting player. He’s a bit quiet, but he brings a lot of excitement,” he said.
“We’ve seen what he can do. He’s growing week by week and has incredible potential to reach great heights. Healthy competition is always good for the group.”
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With the race for playoff places tightening, Van der Merwe acknowledged the significance of Saturday’s match.
“Every game is crucial,” he said. “Especially in the South African conference. The Bulls are an incredible side at home, with their fans behind them. We expect a very physical challenge and we have to be at our absolute best.”
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
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