Durban - The Sharks coach John Plumtree and Vodacom Western Province loose forward Duane Vermeulen on Tuesday received the Absa Coach and Player of the Month awards for August at a ceremony held in Durban.

Plumtree’s side are currently in first position on the Absa Currie Cup log with 36 points and are eight points clear of Vodacom Western Province, Vodacom Free State Cheetahs and the Vodacom Blue Bulls who are currently all in joint second place.

The Sharks who conceded a 40-34 defeat to the GWK Griquas in week one, managed to secure seven consecutive victories in this season’s competition after that result in Kimberley before going down (40-34) to the defending champions in Pretoria on Saturday. They have scored the most tries (39) in the competition after nine games and have also accumulated the most points – 328.

“This award is actually a reflection of all the hard work that has been put in by all of us here at The Sharks,” said Plumtree.

“The Absa Currie Cup is a tough competition. Our players, team management and all the coaches are constantly putting in a lot of hard work to ensure the progress and success of this side. So it’s a huge honour for me to be presented with this award. Thank you Absa for the recognition.”

The Absa Currie Cup Coach and Player of the Month competition, which will run during the course of the competition, rewards players who have consistently performed during each month of South Africa’s domestic competition. Coaches are also honoured on a monthly basis for their contribution to their team’s consistent performances.

While Vodacom Western Province has suffered three consecutive defeats during their last few games in the Absa Currie Cup, Vermeulen has consistently been one of the standout performers during this year’s competition.

“From a team perspective, this past month has been tough for us at Vodacom Western Province with ups and downs, so to be named Absa Currie Cup Player of the Month for August is really a great honour,” added Vermeulen.

“There are exceptional players representing eight teams in the Absa Currie Cup every weekend, so to be recognised for my on-field performances is also an honour.”