Scrumhalf Grant Williams sparked the Sharks in the second half against the Lions this past Saturday. Photo: Phando Jikelo Independent Media
Image: Phando Jikelo Independent Media
The cameo Springbok scrumhalf Grant Williams delivered off the bench against the Lions should give Sharks head coach John Plumtree some food for thought about his team's composition ahead of this weekend's return derby in Durban.
For most of the 80 minutes at Ellis Park, the coastal side appeared flat and was overran by the Lions' forwards and backs in the 38-14 loss.
There's the opportunity for redemption on Saturday at Kings Park, but a few crinkles need to be ironed out for the Sharks to do that. For one, Williams has been the spark of the attack when he starts at scrumhalf. He orchestrated the downfall of the Bulls a couple of weeks ago at Loftus Versfeld, so it was surprising why he was selected on the bench.
On Saturday, when he replaced fellow Bok Jaden Hendrikse, the Sharks' attacking play also went up a notch. He looks more dangerous with the ball in hand even when his side is going backwards.Had it not been for him speeding up their game, the Durbanites would've probably left Johannesburg with zero points on the scoreboard.
But his ability to sum up the space by playing with his head up is what makes him stand out at the moment.He should be a sure starter come Saturday, especially if the Lions will look to play a fast-paced game at Kings Park. To counter them, Williams' sniping ability and how well he reads a game, will be crucial.
The replacement scrumhalf made two clean breaks, beat three defenders, made four offloads, and made 80 metres with his runs when he took to the field in the second half.
The same goes for loose forward Tino Mavesere. He's been a revelation in the six-jersey, but the return of Siya Kolisi does make it difficult for Plumtree to retain him in the starting lineup.Surely he's done enough to warrant another shot, even if that means playing him off the bench on Saturday.
His strength when he carries the ball, ferocious tackling, hard work and turnovers at the breakdown have been special in the last couple of games. Mavesere has been giving his all and it will be a pity if he misses out on a place in the squad.
There will be some tough selection calls for Plumtree to make this week as they look to avoid losing to the Lions twice in one season for another year.