Two sides eager to get back to winning ways the Highlanders and the Sharks will face off tonight to kick‑off Round 9 of the Super Rugby season.
The Highlanders were stunned at the Reds two weeks ago as an off‑colour night saw them head into their bye week on the back of a loss.
The Sharks meanwhile are in free‑fall at the moment after a draw followed by three straight defeats has left their fans less than happy.
The Sharks have also made changes in an attempt to change their fortunes so in comes a new director at flyhalf, Garth April, who takes over from Joe Pietersen.
His task is to ignite a side which has made the third fewest clean breaks and defenders beaten this season, against one of the best attacking teams in the competition, who will be keen to bounce back in style in front of their fans.
The Highlanders will fancy their chances, despite a couple of backline changes, as they have won five of their last seven matches against South Africa teams; that streak has included both a win and a loss against the Sharks. They’re also on an eight‑game winning run at home.
Ben Smith’s return from concussion is a significant boost to their attacking game as he provides an alternative first‑receiver option to accompany his renowned kick returns.
The last time these teams met, the Highlanders outplayed the Sharks in Dunedin 48-15.
The Highlanders play the Sharks at 7.35 tonight while the Rebels play the Cheetahs at 9.40pm.
Source: Planet Rugby
