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Mvovo: Sharks focused on progress

Durban - Although the Sharks enjoy a bye this weekend, speedster Lwazi Mvovo says the players from Durban will be working hard to continue their impressive start to the Super Rugby campaign.

This year, the Sharks have bounced back after a disappointing Super Rugby campaign in 2015, when they lost nine of their 16 fixtures.

They are currently on top Africa Conference 2 and feature second behind the Stormers in the overall African group. Although they lost a close battle against Crusaders last weekend (19-14), their three victories - including away wins over the Stormers (18-13) and Southern Kings (43-8) - and the away draw against the Bulls in Pretoria have built vital momentum.

Mvovo says there’s plenty excitement among the players in the squad.

“We were disappointed with the loss against the Crusaders, but we’re definitely happy with our start to Super Rugby this season,” Mvovo told MyPlayers.

“There’s a good mix of experience in the team and we’re gelling very well. To see young guys like the Du Preez twins (loose forwards Jean-Luc and Daniel) make a major step up is great.

“The fact that (Sharks director of rugby) Gary Gold has had more time to work with the players has also made a massive difference. Many people tend to forget that he had only arrived a week before our first warm-up game last year. Since then, he has had more time to work with the players and we have adapted to the game plan and structures he has established. The new coaches, like (assistant coach) Robert du Preez, have also brought a lot of fresh ideas to the table.”

The Sharks play their next match against the Lions at Kings Park on April 9.

While the players will get a well-deserved rest this weekend, Mvovo stressed they will need to work hard to continue their progress.

“Like I said, we’re happy with what the team has achieved so far, but there’s more hard work to put in. We have to put those results behind us as there are many more tough matches coming up… starting with the Lions next week.

“We want to go far in this tournament and win the trophy. The Sharks have reached finals and semi-finals before, but we’ve always fallen short. I’ve been a part of that experience and we want to go a step further.”

For more exclusive player content, check out MyPlayers.co.za

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