The Sharks will fancy their chances against the Stormers on Saturday in Cape Town after coming off a good win this past weekend. Several players put their hand up with excellent performances over the last couple of weeks for the visitors and they will look to kick on for a second win in the coastal derby this year.
Independent Newspapers takes a look at five players who could make their mark even further on Saturday for the Durban side.
Ethan Hooker
The utility-back just keeps going from strength to strength.
Now in his preferred centre position next to Bok inside centre Andre Esterhuizen, the youngster keeps making inroads. His prowess with the ball under his arm makes him a dangerous attacker and the Stormers defence must keep an eye on him should he get the start again.
Hooker will also have the big task of organising the defensive line to keep the attack of the home side at bay. If he does that successfully, they will nullify a big part of the Cape outfit's abilities.
Jordan Hendrikse
He wasn't at his best form against the Bulls, but Hendrikse still played a pivotal role alongside brother Jaden in the victory in the Shark Tank.
But he must quickly learn that playing at home and playing in Cape Town is like chalk and cheese and that tomorrow will pose a different threat to his all-round game. The Sharks’ kicking game could heavily depend on his boot should he get the nod from head coach John Plumtree.
Hendrikse has been good next to his brother over the last couple of games and their link-up play holds the key to the Sharks’ momentum.
Aphelele Fassi
An attacking weapon who can turn the game on its head without too much effort. The Bok fullback has been in sublime form and in his last game against the Cape side, he led the way with his attacking play.
But it's his backfield play against the dangers of the Stormers backline that could determine the result for the Sharks. After his last performance against the Stormers, he will be keen on setting his best foot forward against them tomorrow afternoon.
Corne Rahl
While the Stormers’ line-outs and rolling mauls have been functioning quite well, Rahl could be pivotal in stopping the advances of the home side.
He’s the silent assassin in the Sharks’ pack and how he disrupts line-out throws and rolling mauls of the opposition could be crucial if head coach John Plumtree unleashes him again alongside enforcer Jason Jenkins.
Rahl’s defensive work across the field has also been a strong point of his play and he’ll look to continue the upward trajectory in Cape Town.
Phepsi Buthelezi
One critical intervention at a ruck by the loose forward saved the Sharks in the first coastal derby from blushes.
He will be keen to build on his last couple of performances even if it means running off the bench again. The Cape conditions will suit his game and Buthelezi could be a crucial cog in the Sharks’ pack.
Buthelezi faces stiff competition even from within his own camp and he must spark to remain within the loose forward conversation in Durban.