Jean-Luc du Plessis of DHL Stormers scores a try during the United Rugby Championship against the Sharks. BackpagePix
With the URC season taking a break until the end of January, all four South African franchises still wield the power to dictate their playoff destinies.
But, the upcoming fixtures in the league might make or break their aspirations for glory.
The Bulls currently lead the local franchises, holding the fourth position on the log with 25 points, and they are closely pursued by the Sharks, who are just one point adrift in fifth place.
Meanwhile, the Lions and Stormers are not far behind, each clawing for a spot within the coveted top eight. The Stormers rallied impressively over the festive season, accruing 10 vital log points to leap from 13th to 9th place where they will end the year, sitting just one point behind eighth-placed Irish outfit Ulster.
Reflecting optimism, Director of Rugby John Dobson stated that the Stormers will harness their momentum when they face Leinster away at the end of January upon the URC's resumption. He expressed that every match that follows holds the potential for victory, instilling confidence in his squad's capabilities.
On the other end of the spectrum, the Lions have experienced a fall from grace. After making a strong start alongside the Bulls early in the season, they now languish in 11th place, two points behind the Stormers.
Intensifying pressure looms as they prepare for a clash against the Bulls towards the end of January – a Jukskei derby that could prove pivotal for both sides, especially given the Lions' recent three-match losing streak which began in Leinster back in October.
Injuries to critical players have contributed to the Lions' struggle for momentum, but there is hope on the horizon. Fullback Quan Horn and outside centre Henco Venter are expected to return just in time for these key URC fixtures, a welcome boost that may provide a spark the team desperately needs.
Similarly, the Bulls face their own challenges as they strive to rediscover their form. While they have two games in hand - offering them some breathing room - their recent streak of three consecutive losses across all competitions does little to elevate their confidence.
The team must find a way to reignite that competitive fire to remain in contention in the top four.
Down in the coastal camp, the Sharks are keenly aware of their need for improvement as head coach John Plumtree stressed the importance of doing better on the road.
Sharks and Springbok fans will be hoping Aphelele Fassi and Andre Esterhuizen have a speedy recovery 🤞🤕 pic.twitter.com/nnq3todEL4
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) December 30, 2024
With their next three URC matches scheduled away from home, the Sharks are in urgent need of victory - a requirement underscored by their winless record in away games thus far this season. To be recognised as serious contenders in the URC, the Sharks cannot solely depend on the comfort of victories at King's Park.
They face a daunting challenge next against Cardiff, who have emerged as a surprise entity in the league and currently sit comfortably in third place. The trip to Wales at the end of January promises to be a stern test of character and skill for the Sharks.