HollywoodBets Sharks Flanker Vincent Tshituka Excited for Tough Encounter Against Connacht
The Sharks have had a challenging start to the Vodacom United Rugby Championship season, managing only one win in their first five matches. That lone victory came just before the international break, when they defeated Scarlets 29-19.
Connacht sits just one point and one place ahead of the Sharks as both teams aim to kick-start their seasons.
The Irish squad has won three of their previous four matches against the Durban-based Sharks.
Tshituka reflected positively on the time off, noting it has provided the team an opportunity to prepare rigorously for this match-up.
“It’s been really good. We’ve had quite a bit of time off, and we’ve been able to prepare for this challenge against Connacht,” he stated.
“The guys have put in a lot of hard work to fix issues we’ve had at the beginning of the season. There’s been a positive vibe, so I’m excited for this short tour, and I’m excited for Connacht.”
The Sharks' upcoming itinerary includes two away games: first against Connacht at Dexcom Stadium, followed by a clash with European giants Toulouse at Stade Ernest-Wallon in the Investec Champions Cup.
“It’s been about connecting as a team. It’s been a really tough start to the season that we didn’t foresee nor did we want,” Tshituka said. “The reality is that the only way to bounce back is to pull together and put in the work – that is exactly what we have done. We hope to reap the rewards of that.”
Recently attaining South African citizenship and earning a cap for the Springboks, Tshituka emphasizes the importance of team cohesion both on and off the field.
“Connecting as a team has been massive for us over the past few weeks. Connecting on and off the field – even individually- has been an aspect we want to invest more time in. The guys are in a good space, and we’re looking forward to a good challenge in Connacht.”
Despite similarities in their respective seasons, Tshituka acknowledges Connacht's quality.
“We know Connacht is a quality side and extremely hard to beat, specifically away from home. We know they haven’t started the season the way they’ve wanted to, but we are not disillusioned by the fact that they are a quality side,” he remarked. “That will inspire them and create a spark to turn the season around. We know exactly what we’re facing.”
Overall, Tshituka believes the Sharks have adequately prepared and are ready for the tough battle ahead on Saturday.
“We have done our part and worked on our preparation over the past few weeks – and come up with a solid plan against them.”
Springbok players Grant Williams and Edwill van der Merwe will be available for selection as the Sharks strive to secure back-to-back victories for the first time this season.
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