The Bulls' Springbok flyhalf Handre Pollatd gets the ball away during their URC SA derby against the Sharks.
Image: AFP
After the Bulls dismantled the Sharks 41-12 in a seven-tries-to-one hammering at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday the reflections from the respective captains could not have been more contrasting.
An ebullient Marcell Coetzee praised the attacking flair of his backline as the team climbed to seventh place on the URC log.
“We attacked really well from the back, we chased well, and there was some very good finishing. The backs were on fire,” said the smiling Coetzee.
The veteran flanker added: “The boys really got stuck in today. The character they showed on defence played a big part. Early in the second half, there were a few soft moments, but we quickly rectified things with good game management — we adapted well when they began a comeback.
"We shut them down and replied with attacks of our own. That was pleasing, and we backed it up with a strong performance in the aerial battle. I think our box kicking was spot on.”
In stark contrast, Andre Esterhuizen was dejected when speaking to the media, acknowledging that the Sharks face a steep uphill battle if they are to qualify for the top-eight play-offs.
“We are very disappointed with that performance. I think we started well and put some early pressure on the Bulls, but that good opening 15 minutes gave way to some soft moments on defence,” the Sharks skipper said.
“We were caught out by their cross-kicks, which resulted in tries. From there, we were playing catch-up.
“In the second half, we started well, as we did in the first, and began to gain momentum, only to fail to manage the kick-offs. That put us back under pressure, and we were again chasing the game.”
Esterhuizen admitted his team has “a lot to learn” if they are to salvage their season.
“A while ago, we spoke about learning while winning — referring to when we twice beat the Stormers — but after two defeats, we no longer have any room for error. We have six games left, and it feels as though we must win all of them to qualify.”