Grant Williams The Key To Sharks' Redemption Against The Lions

The cameo Springbok scrumhalf Grant Williams delivered off the bench against the Lions should give Sharks head coach John Plumtree some food for thought about his team's composition ahead of this weekend's return derby in Durban.

For most of the 80 minutes at Ellis Park, the coastal side appeared flat and was overran by the Lions' forwards and backs in the 38-14 loss.

There's the opportunity for redemption on Saturday at Kings Park, but a few crinkles need to be ironed out for the Sharks to do that. For one, Williams has been the spark of the attack when he starts at scrumhalf. He orchestrated the downfall of the Bulls a couple of weeks ago at Loftus Versfeld, so it was surprising why he was selected on the bench.

On Saturday, when he replaced fellow Bok Jaden Hendrikse, the Sharks' attacking play also went up a notch. He looks more dangerous with the ball in hand even when his side is going backwards.Had it not been for him speeding up their game, the Durbanites would've probably left Johannesburg with zero points on the scoreboard.

But his ability to sum up the space by playing with his head up is what makes him stand out at the moment.He should be a sure starter come Saturday, especially if the Lions will look to play a fast-paced game at Kings Park. To counter them, Williams' sniping ability and how well he reads a game, will be crucial.