Dawn Dunn on Sharks win over Reds
The Sad
The Sharks had three massive blows in the week leading up to this much anticipated clash. First Paul Jordaan (a personal favourite of mine),was ruled out for 4 weeks after having a cracker of a game last week and then lock Pieter- Steph du Toit was injured during training on Thursday and will be out for the rest of the year.
Twins, Odwa (The Sharks) and Akona (The Blue Bulls) Ndungane lost their Dad on Monday and was granted compassionate leave. My thoughts and prayers are with their family during this difficult time.
Thankfully, JP had finished up with Suntory in Japan and arrived back in Durbs on Monday. Jake re-shuffled his starting XV and we all hoped for the best.
The Ugly
I cannot stand it when The Reds constantly push boundaries with their revolting dirty play. Even our very own Natarah Nadessan, who by the way is new to rugby, noticed the dirty play and constantly commented on it. When Beau Robinson finally received a yellow card, I was literally seeing RED!!! I absolutely loath this Reds side. I think that there is NO confusion about my feelings on this topic.
The Truly wonderful
After exchanging a few penalty kicks by both flyhalves, Willem “The Bone Collector” Alberts, powered over for the first try of the match in the 28th minute. My Lambie, showing no ill effects from his recent illness, kicked flawlessly. My Fransie, punished the Reds from as far as 57m and did not break a sweat. JP together with Mvovo had a really awesome game. The Reds scored two very soft tries in the second half and I am not happy with that. Bizzie had a tough conversation behind the poles with the boys and they pulled together after that. Dale Chadwick finally wrapped up the match in the 78th minute by scoring the last try of the match.
Marcell Coetzee had a cracker and really deserves his MOM award. This win was really important to me and I am ecstatic that the Reds left with their tails between their legs!!
A warning though: The Boys need to be careful about letting the opposition back in when they have a good lead.
Otherwise, my babies have made me deliriously happy and content! The journey from Good to Great continues...
(File photo:Gallo Images)