Match Preview | Hollywoodbets Sharks [A]

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - DECEMBER 23: Glasgow Warriors flags during a BKT United Rugby Championship match between Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh at Scotstoun Stadium, on December 23, 2022 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group)

Coming off another bonus-point win against Zebre Parma in Round 4, Glasgow face the Sharks on the first stop of their two-week tour in South Africa.

This clash will be the fourth time the two sides have played against each other.

Last season, the Sharks visited Scotstoun for the annual Plaster It Purple game. Glasgow came out on top 21-10.

In the previous three meetings, the home side has always been the victor. But with momentum behind the Warriors, Glasgow will be searching for a second away win this season.

Glasgow Warriors’ only loss in their last eight BKT URC fixtures was by a single point to Ulster in Belfast on the opening weekend of the 2024/25 campaign.

Glasgow have won four of their last six fixtures against South African opponents.

This season, Glasgow have had a strong start when it comes to scoring tries. Huw Jones, Jamie Dobie, and Kyle Steyn are all currently tied with three tries apiece. The Sharks only have one top try-scorer. Andre Esterhuizen currently holds the top spot for the Sharks with two tries to his name this season.

OPPOSITION LOWDOWN

Hollywoodbets Sharks only win in their last six Vodacom United Rugby Championship matches was 33-30 at Dragons RFC in Round 3.

The Sharks have lost their last three games at Hollywoodbets Kings Park in the Championship since beating Edinburgh there on 30 March 2024.

Due to the Currie Cup Final, the Sharks have only played three games in the URC so far. Whilst they’re sat at 14th in the table, they are not to be underestimated.

Since the Rugby Championship came to its conclusion at the end of September, several Springboks have been released back into club rugby. Notably, Siya Kolisi, Bongi Mbonambi, and Eben Etzebeth.

Both teams are filled with international superstars. Round 5 will certainly be a tight contest both up front in the scrums and set pieces but also in the back line.