Inexperience no excuse – Sithole
The Sharks began the Absa Currie Cup with a number of new faces in the squad. A few young players have come through the ranks in Durban, while others have joined the Union from overseas or other South African teams.
The result was a team that has had to gel as the season started - as coach Gary Gold opted for just one warm-up match before the domestic competition kicked off. Sithole said the onus was on his teammates to take responsibility for their performances.
“Coming into the season we had a lot of guys who were inexperienced. We had a few Super Rugby guys, but most of the guys were new in the squad either from overseas or from other provinces. But as the season goes on, we can’t use inexperience as an excuse - the players have to grow up and show face on the field. I think the guys are getting that experience and are getting better handling different situations on the field,” Sithole said.
“The Currie Cup is a proving ground for young players to get Super Rugby contracts or positions in squads and team. For the young guys, it’s an opportunity to play well and show the coaches they’re capable of playing Super Rugby.”
Saturday’s clash will be the second time the Sharks have faced the Pumas this season. They have home-ground advantage as well as a shot at redemption having lost the first outing at Mbombela Stadium in week one of the tournament.
“The nice thing is that loss is still fresh in our minds – most of the guys are still hurting and it’s nice to play them so soon to be able to get that pain away.”
“That first game we played together the Pumas had been together a lot longer. Now it’s pretty much an even playing field in my eyes. I think the team that brings the physicality and out-thinks the other team will win the game.”
“I think everyone knows the Pumas have a big forward pack and good running backs as well as a good kicking game. They will bring physicality like we saw in that first game – they feed off their set piece and they are strong coming round the corner,” Sithole said.
While a win at home is first prize, Sithole looked ahead to the upcoming games against Currie Cup heavyweights the Lions and Western Province. He emphasised the importance of claiming a confidence boosting win.
“Coming into this part of the season, we’ve got Lions and Province coming. I think a win will be good for us, so we can carry some momentum so when we play the bigger teams the guys will be more confident.”
“We’ve got a young side and confidence is a pretty big thing with youngsters coming through. They’re inexperienced and it’s the same with me, I’m a young player but I feed off my own and my teammates confidence. I think if we can play well this weekend, the confidence and spirits will be high in the team.”
The Sharks face the Pumas at 15h00 on Saturday at Growthpoint Kings Park.
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