What the Sharks desperately need is a good sports psychologist. If they have one, well they need to do more. Because after yesterdays effort they need to work hard - mentally as well as physically.
There is no denying the Sharks do not have a wealth of playing talent compared to other teams, they do not have the best coach nor the best gameplay structure and the clubs culture is frankly not one of winning and success. However they have more ability than what they are showing and I do believe that.
But they have got to address what is going on in their heads and fast as their confidence erodes with each failing week after week. You can't make someone just "believe" they are suddenly good enough necessarily but this team needs a serious attitude shakeup - even Gallon.
To turn up round one you would expect fitness to perhaps not be at it's best and for the defensive and offensive structures to need some work - in the sharks case alot of work and this I can somewhat accept - I know the Sharks are a developing side and not going to set the world on fire anytime soon.
But to drop your bundle like they did after one or two things going against you this early in the season is disgusting and suggests serious issues beyond just lack of talent and structure. This wasn't a weary final game of the season but round one after an off season of assumbly moral building and teamwork under a new coach - they should be refreshed but they looked over it 20 mins in.
It seems not only have they not learned but they have regressed. Something is toxic in the air that's for sure. I saw it alot last season - they started strongly then one thing doesn't work out and they lose the plot and panic. They self destruct as bad as any other team but they don't have the ability to bounce back from those sort of setbacks like other teams. They just spiral down and down "here we go again". And that's a quote from Paul Gallon btw.
I'm not suprised they force offloads - nothing else seems to work for them attack wise and they don't have the mental stanima to be patient and stick to a plan (if they have one?).
When this team holds the ball they can challenge almost any team and this we have seen. We don't have the halves or backs to play too flash but we do have a strong forward pack which just begs for a simple, disciplined game style -a.k.a Dragons. Get the metres and get to the kick, repeat, stir, drink.
A new coach shouting orders won't solve everything- they need inspiration, guidance & clarity and with that they will find respect, pride and passion.
I say it again - until they get their heads inline I don't see anything changing with this rabble of despair.
Club & players - no more excuses we want a football team back.
Go the Sharks.