Sharks coach JP Pietersen says his inexperienced side has shown improvement ahead of Saturday’s Currie Cup clash against the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus Versfeld.

A youthful Sharks team suffered a 46-5 defeat to the Lions in their opening match of the tournament at Ellis Park last weekend, while the Bulls beat Western Province 48-23 in Cape Town.

For this week’s match, Pietersen has included Junior Springboks Jaco Williams, Simphiwe Ngobese, Matt Romao and Vusi Moyo in the match 23, as well as two experienced forwards, lock Corne Rahl and flanker Tino Mavesere. Prop Dian Bleuler has been ruled out through injury.

“It’s a very tough task for the group,” Pietersen told reporters. “But do we have fight? Yes, we have fight. Do we have good players in the group? Yes, we have. Do we need time? Definitely. All you can do is take it day by day, but there’s been definite improvement from last week’s training to this week’s.”

Pietersen admitted his team’s lack of experience was exposed against the Lions.

“We looked at the squad and across the 23 there were only about 100 Sharks caps combined. That shows you the lack of experience and game time,” he said. “But we know what this competition is for – it’s about blooding youngsters who can push for URC selection. If we win games along the way, that’s a bonus.”

The Sharks coach is also excited about the impact the Junior Springboks will bring.

“They have slotted in nicely,” he said. “They’ve brought energy and intensity. Some of them will get an opportunity this weekend, which is exciting for the group.”

TEAM: Moyo, Williams set to ignite Loftus

Pietersen knows his side faces a massive challenge against a Bulls team that made an impressive start to their campaign.

“If you look at the Bulls, they’ve got guys who have been playing URC for two or three years. They’ve got experience and understand the game,” he said. “For us, it’s about staying in our system for as long as possible – even when we’re under fatigue or pressure – and just focusing on our own game.”

PREVIEW: Bulls, Sharks headline big Currie Cup weekend

Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images