'What nerves? I haven't got any nerves,' says upbeat Sharks coach Du Preez

23 February 2017 - 16:35 By Khanyiso Tshwaku
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Sharks assistant coaches Robert du Preez, Ryan Strudwick and Sean Everitt during the Cell C Sharks training session at Growthpoint Kings Park on July 19, 2016 in Durban, South Africa.
Sharks assistant coaches Robert du Preez, Ryan Strudwick and Sean Everitt during the Cell C Sharks training session at Growthpoint Kings Park on July 19, 2016 in Durban, South Africa.
Image: Steve Haag/Gallo Images

Sharks coach Robert du Preez is not one to get excited easily but when he does‚ something special must be on the horizon.

Such was the infectuous anticipation of his first Super Rugby match as head coach that his charges should excel against the Reds in Brisbane on Friday morning if they feed off his positive energy.

The Sharks have enjoyed travelling to Brisbane in recent years but there could be a reality check because of the on-paper strength of the Reds.

His opposite number Nick Stiles will also be making his Super Rugby debut‚ which somewhat lessened the pressure on Du Preez.

However‚ the Sharks competed well against the New Zealand sides last year and they will be expected to take their performances up one notch against the weaker Australian sides.

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“What nerves? I haven't got any nerves but the quicker this game is done‚ the better because I'm really looking forward to the challenge‚" Du Preez said.

"I just want to make sure we start with the basics in place and it's all about that.

"We have a plan in mind for the medium and long term but we have to get the basics right.

"I think from there the team will blossom.

“Once we make sure our set-pieces are sorted out and the breakdowns are looked after‚ I think the team will play because there's a lot of talent.”

With the likes of George Smith‚ Scott Higginbotham and Quade Cooper in their ranks‚ this is arguably the strongest Reds team on paper since the one that won their maiden Super Rugby title six years ago.

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Whether the experienced Smith is past his prime remains to be seen as the Sharks are going into the game without a recognised fetcher.

While the Sharks were at times embarrassed by the New Zealand outfits‚ their superior set-piece strength and their physicality often bailed them out.

The Reds' star quality is not something Du Preez is in awe of.

“The guys they have are experienced Test players and we'll definitely watch them.

"Also I think it's a good thing we've toured first and it's an advantage.

"We didn't do badly away from home last year where we beat the Highlanders but we should have beaten the Blues.

"We'll take it one game at a time‚” Du Preez said.

 - TMG Digital

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