Whiteley: Sharks Can Reach New Heights
Hollywoodbets Sharks assistant coach, Warren Whiteley, is confident that both the team and individual players have room for further growth after their recent impressive form.
The Sharks have undergone a remarkable turnaround in the latter stages of the 2023/24 season. Winning six of their last seven games across all competitions, including a historic victory in the EPCR Challenge Cup semi-final, Whiteley believes the team has made significant strides in recent months.
“We feel like we’ve made some great improvements to our game in the last two months,” Whiteley affirmed. “This past weekend against Clermont was a massive test for us, and the team responded brilliantly.”
Whiteley acknowledged the positive impact of Springbok forwards Ox Nche, Bongi Mbonambi, and Eben Etzebeth since their return from injury.
“They’ve made a massive contribution on the field, and their leadership has also been crucial,” Whiteley said. “Eben, in particular, had a phenomenal game this past weekend.”
Sharks fly-half Siya Masuku has emerged as one of the team’s standout performers this season. The 27-year-old enjoyed a stellar performance, scoring 22 points and inspiring the Sharks to their historic Challenge Cup victory over Clermont.
“Siya has grown from strength to strength since taking over the starting fly-half role this season,” Whiteley praised. “He’s still hungry to improve, which is a fantastic quality. We believe he has the potential to play even better than he is right now.”
Currently sitting in 13th place with 23 points, just two behind 14th-placed Cardiff, the Sharks return to the United Rugby Championship aiming for a respectable finish with only three games remaining in the first round.
Whiteley confirmed that the Sharks approach their next game against Benetton as an opportunity for further development.
“We’re looking forward to this game,” Whiteley said. “It’s a chance for us to keep improving and get even better.”
The Sharks take on Benetton on matchday 16 of the URC at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium on Saturday (16:05).
