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The Sharks head to Ellis Park on Saturday knowing their United Rugby Championship clash with the Lions could play a decisive role in their playoff push.
The two sides are locked on 24 points, separated only by points difference, with the Sharks currently sitting ninth. With a difficult trip to face the Bulls looming next week, Springbok prop Vincent Koch stressed the importance of the upcoming Gauteng fixtures.
"These next two games are massively important in terms of where we finish on the log," Koch said.
The Sharks return to action after a two-week break following back-to-back victories over the Stormers, results that lifted them from 14th place into the top 10. Koch admitted the break arrived at the right time after a demanding stretch of fixtures.
"Those Stormers wins were unbelievable, but they drained us physically and mentally," he said. "The rest helped us refocus on what we need to achieve."
The Sharks' improved form has coincided with a cultural shift under head coach JP Pietersen, with Koch crediting the former Springbok for encouraging freedom and unity within the squad.
"You can clearly see the enjoyment and the willingness to play for each other," he said.
Saturday's derby is expected to be heavily influenced by the set-piece battle, with both teams boasting strong scrum records. Koch warned the Sharks face a significant challenge against a Lions pack shaped by former Springbok prop Julian Redelinghuys.
"It's going to be a massive battle up front. If you dominate the scrum, it gives the entire team energy," Koch said.
The Sharks also have extra motivation after suffering a dramatic one-point loss to the Lions earlier this season and can retain the SA Shield with victory at Ellis Park.
"We know what this game means," Koch added. "It will come down to who manages the big moments better, and we're determined to make sure it's us."
