05 March 2010
	RUGBY Missing the formula By David Williams

So what's wrong with the Sharks? It wasn't just that they were thrashed 35-6 by the Crusaders in New Zealand last Friday. The score wasn't a disgrace - the Crusaders are historically the most successful side in the Super 14 (and before that the Super 12). They have a winning culture and iconic All Black players like Richie McCaw and Dan Carter, and are an especially tough proposition at home. No, it was the manner of the defeat. It's true that some courageous defending restricted the Crusaders to a 10-3 lead after 30 minutes, despite the home team having had more than 70% of territorial advantage. But the Sharks looked like a boxer who was keeping out his opponent's blows but failing to land any himself - and that works for only so long before defeat is inevitable. The Sharks battled to hold on to the ball. They were losing it in the tackle and knocking it both forward and backward to concede possession. They failed to protect the ball at the back of the rucks, where they were frequently knocked back by the New Zealanders' greater aggression and superior technique. The Sharks conceded several penalties for not binding or engaging properly in the scrum. Their backs seemed to be moving at half pace and without commitment. This Springbok-laden team never came close to scoring a try. Where the Sharks have gone backward, and clearly need intensive therapy, the Bulls keep going forward. This growth is illustrated by the great improvement in the play of centre Wynand Olivier. He used to be fragile on defence and something of a pretty boy on attack - lots of fuss and hairstyle, not much delivery. Now his bulldozer tackling and his ability to cut the opposition line make him the best centre in SA. That change is not about talent. It comes from confidence, which in turn comes from winning and playing in a happy, well-managed team. The Sharks have evidently forgotten the formula.