No leeway for Sharks at Ellis Park

The Lions have produced some scintillating rugby throughout the Super Rugby season and are currently just three points behind the Crusaders on the combined Super Rugby standings.

However, veteran Sharks wing JP Pietersen believes that if they execute their game plan on Saturday, they could upset the highflying Lions in their own backyard. 

"It is going to be tough for us going up to Joburg," said Pietersen. "They beat us this year in Durban so they are the in-form team and I think we are the underdogs. 

"The most important thing for us is to correct what we need to do this week and get it right. If we execute our game plan, we will definitely be in the contest and can get the result.

"They are full of confidence - all of their players are in good form and that makes it easier for them to execute their game plan. If we can execute our game plan, play in the right areas and win the territory battle then we can get the result on Saturday."

Super Rugby resumes this weekend after the June international window and Pietersen says both teams could be a bit rusty at the start of the game.

"I think both of the teams were a bit disrupted because of the June break. There will always be some rustiness, but we will only know on Saturday in the first 20 minutes of the game. 

"We will see on Saturday who is the rustiest," he added.

Pietersen will be furthering his career with English Premiership club Leicester Tigers after Super Rugby and he wants to enjoy every moment he has left with his Sharks teammates.

He also confirmed that he still wants to play for the Springboks in the future.

"I am not looking too far ahead - my focus is just on the Lions this weekend," said Pietersen.

"I know it is coming soon, but the important thing is to enjoy every moment I get with the boys and just have fun on the field.

He added: "I think the fire to play for the Springboks is still there. I am very dedicated to Springbok rugby and when Allister Coetzee calls me up I will be available to play for him.

"I am only 29-years-old, so time will tell. If I am not good enough, I will make peace with that, but at the moment I have the fire and the desire to play for the Springboks."

By @rugby365com