Embattled Sharks target Munster scalp as URC playoff race heats up

The Durban franchise is currently in 11th on the log, six points off the eighth-placed Bulls. They have six matches left to climb the ladder and one would imagine they need to win at least five to make the playoffs.

This weekend is the ideal opportunity to start that ambitious goal as the Sharks host Munster at Kings Park on Saturday.

After a short break to accommodate the Six Nations, the action returns and Hendrikse explained that it's been a productive time for his team.

"Having a week off gave us the opportunity to reflect on the last two games, what we lacked was no executing the things we wanted to, our kicking game, intensity, not being up physically, and those are things we did well against the Stormers but lacked in the following two games," the Springbok told the Sharks' website.

"We've reflected well and taken accountability and we've prepped well for the game."

The last time the two teams met was a historic knock-out game that went to a first-ever shoot-out, also at Kings Park and Hendrikse obviously has memories of that game.

"Definitely," he admits.

"It was the first penalty shoot-out ever in the competition, that was a stand-out memory. But it's personal for them, they haven't forgotten the stuff that went on and they'll be up for this one.

"For us, it's important where we are on the log."

Munster have always proved to be tough opposition and he expects nothing different on Saturday.

"We know they're a team that never shies away from physicality, they're always up for a challenge and they always stay in the fight," continued the flyhalf.

"With new coaches coming in, they've also introduced new elements and variation to their game. So for us, it's about prepping well. We know they will be a different side to last season and we know we have to be really good on the day to get the result."

With the race to the eight now a focal point in the competition, Hendrikse is only too aware of the importance riding on the outcome of this game. But the pressure is not something they've highlighted.

"Our biggest focus is on being consistent, we had a consistent run against the Stormers and then inconsistent against the Lions and Bulls, and we can't afford any inconsistencies in our game and game model and what we're good at," he said.

"For us now, it's about being consistent and taking our opportunities when they come. And being more clinical.

"From a pressure point of view, there will be more of that, but if we execute our plan and what we want to achieve on the day, and being consistent, then there shouldn't be a problem.

"For us, the biggest thing is to get the result, getting us five points moves us up the log. We know we can't mess up any more games."

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