What we learned from the third round of Super Rugby, according to CRAIG LEWIS.
Sharks make their mark
In their opening game against the Reds, the Sharks failed to protect possession and ultimately were unable to enforce the ball-in-hand approach that they had spoken of during the pre-season. However, they quickly learned from that defeat and produced a far better and balanced performance to upset the Brumbies in Canberra, while they completely outclassed the Waratahs back in Durban this past Saturday. Offering immense physicality on defence, and intent to attack, the Sharks made a statement as they moved to the top of the Africa 2 conference.
VIDEO: Highlights of Sharks vs Waratahs
Curwin Bosch boasts prolific talent
Sharks coach Robert du Preez has said he has no issue backing Curwin Bosch to make the step up to Super Rugby level, and it’s easy to see why. After producing the magic moment that secured the Sharks a win in Canberra last weekend, he delivered an outstanding all-round display as an early replacement for Pat Lambie on Saturday. He contributed 27 points with a try, six penalties and two conversions, which sent out another reminder of his prodigious abilities.
ALSO READ: Sharks outclass Waratahs
Eben Etzebeth remains a colossal performer
In a year when the Boks will desperately need their big-name players to stand up and deliver, there are encouraging signs that Etzebeth will be one of those men they can turn to. Etzebeth was in imperious form as he made a massive impact against the Kings on Saturday, while leading the Stormers with aplomb in his first game as the designated captain. Along with Pieter-Steph du Toit, the Boks will have a second-row combination to fear.
REPORT: Stormers cruise past Kings
Stormers well placed to ride wave of momentum
The Stormers are one of only three teams that remain unbeaten in the competition, and while they weren’t at their best against the Kings, they have made the ideal start to the season. After three successive wins, they will now enjoy a handy bye, before returning to action with games against the Sunwolves and Cheetahs that they should be expected to win, and which could set the platform perfectly for their charge to the playoffs.
ALSO READ: Stormers in charge of group
Lions’ plan backfires again
Lions coach Johan Ackermann opted against taking his strongest team to Argentina, with the likes of Elton Jantjies and Lionel Mapoe remaining at home, and in the end a youthful side ultimately suffered a predictable defeat against the Jaguares on Saturday. The Lions went a similar route last year when a second-string side travelled to South America, and lost a clash that effectively cost the Johannesburg-based side a top-of-the-log finish. Again, their selection decision seems to have cost what would have been four valuable points on the road.
VIDEO: Highlights: Jaguares vs Lions
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
