This weekend is going to be massive for local rugby fans. If you love the United Rugby Championship (URC), you are in for a treat this Saturday. The four big South African teams—the Sharks, Stormers, Lions, and Bulls—are facing each other in two huge local derby matches.
Everything is on the line as teams fight for spots in the top eight. Here is what you need to know about the games happening tomorrow.
The Coastal Battle: Sharks vs. Stormers
Venue: Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
Kick-off: 17:00
The biggest news this week is the rematch between the Sharks and the Stormers. Just last week, the Sharks went to Cape Town and shocked everyone by beating the Stormers 30-19. That win ended the Stormers’ long unbeaten run at home.
Now, the game moves to Durban, and the Sharks are not holding back. They have brought back their biggest stars. Springbok captain Siya Kolisi returns to the starting lineup, along with other heavy hitters like Ox Nche and Vincent Tshituka. It looks like the Sharks want to prove that last week’s win was not just luck.
The Stormers will be desperate to fix their mistakes. They have moved Damian Willemse to fullback to add more spark to their attack, and the powerful Evan Roos is back at Number 8 to help with the physical battle.
Expect a very physical game. The Sharks have the momentum, but the Stormers rarely lose two derbies in a row.
The Jukskei Derby: Lions vs. Bulls
Venue: Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg
Kick-off: 14:30
Earlier in the day, the action starts in Johannesburg where the Lions host their neighbours, the Bulls. This is always a fast and tough game.
The Lions have been playing very well this season. They are known as the “turnover kings” because they are excellent at stealing the ball from the opposition. playing at home at Ellis Park gives them a big advantage.
The Bulls, on the other hand, have had a challenging week. They need a strong performance to keep their place high up on the URC log. They have a strong team, but the Lions’ defence will make life very difficult for them.
It is going to be a “Super Saturday” of rugby. Grab your biltong, get comfortable, and enjoy the games!
Fan Zone: Have Your Say
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