Sharks Secure Dramatic 25-20 Carling Currie Cup Victory Over Free State
In a display of unwavering self-belief and resilience, the Hollywoodbets Sharks clinched a hard-fought Carling Currie Cup victory against Toyota Free State on Saturday. Despite facing formidable opposition on the road, the Sharks demonstrated the tenacity and determination that define a champion team.
Throughout the match, the Hollywoodbets Sharks maintained control, leading for most of the game and showing their mettle against a highly-regarded Free State team, particularly on their home turf – a venue where many visiting teams have faltered. As the match entered its final ten minutes, Free State briefly edged ahead for the first time, and with the Sharks down to 14 men, the situation appeared dire. However, the Sharks’ belief in their ability to win never wavered.
Captain Nick Hatton reflected on the team’s mindset during this crucial period: “When we went down, it was about playing in the right areas and to play in their half.
“With this group, we have belief, we knew if we got in the right areas and had an opportunity, we could take it. We knew we were just one score away, we believed and we fought and fortunately, we took the opportunity.”
The victory underscored the ambitions set by Coach JP Pietersen, who emphasized the need for an 80-minute performance and relentless effort. The Sharks delivered on both fronts, fighting for every inch on the field and ultimately securing the match-winning try in the dying moments of the game.
“Coming to Bloemfontein, we always knew what a fight we would have on our hands, and it was going to take an 80-minute performance,” Hatton pointed out. “And down to 14 men in the last 10, we knew we had to fight even more and keep believing. I knew if we got into their half, we would back ourselves. We fought to the 80th minute and fortunately, we got an opportunity we could take.”
The win marks the Sharks’ fourth consecutive unbeaten match, bolstering their confidence as they prepare for their next challenge – a showdown against DHL Western Province in Cape Town. With Province losing their last two matches, the Sharks are aware that their opponents will be eager to close the gap on the top four.
However, the Hollywoodbets Sharks are approaching the match with caution and focus.
“The belief is always there, but we’re not underestimating them at all,” Hatton noted. “Going down to Cape Town is going to be another big challenge for us. We pulled this one off, but the game against Province is another big one to get up for. We will come with a good plan, keep the belief, and keep fighting.”
As the Sharks head into the next round, their recent success serves as both a confidence booster and a reminder of the importance of staying composed and focused on the task ahead.
