Sharks pose a serious threat
WELL, the 100 per cent record came to an end at Worcester last week, but I couldn’t be prouder of my Saracens side as we kept the unbeaten record in tact with a monumental effort at Sixways.
As expected, last Friday night’s match was very tough, but we played very well in conditions which made attacking rugby extremely difficult.
Tomorrow, however, we must do it all again against a Sale Sharks side blessed with plenty of flair and individual talent.
INTENT
While it was nice to keep the winning run going, I’m realistic to know that it had to come to an end at some time, and I’m just thrilled that we still have a zero in our losses column as we prepare for the visit of the Sharks to Vicarage Road.
As I said, Sale are a side blessed with a host of individuals, especially in the back division, with Charlie Hodgson, Mark Cueto, Mathew Tait and Ben Cohen all capable of turning a game, so we know we have to be at the top of our game.
Elsewhere, it was pleasing to see no action taken on Jamie Heaslip for the alleged eye-gouging incident for Ireland against South Africa last weekend. While there was clearly contact in the eye area, the question is intent and that is not entirely clear in this instance as the citing commissioner found.
What was a little sad was the accusations of unsubstantiated referrals made by the IRFU. That is absurd and it’s a shame to see it at top level.
• Brendan Venter is the head coach of Saracens. For box office call 01727 792800.