The Free State will be looking to winning ways following their loss to the Tafel Lager Griquas in Bloemfontein two weeks ago.

It was the team's first loss of the competition, however, they are three points adrift of the Peacock Blues, who in their turn host the Griffons in Welkom.

Following the loss to the Griquas, the Free State captain told OFM Sport that it is not panic stations yet.

"A loss like this just brings you back down to earth. It's maybe something that we will need in reaching the back part of the competition.

"There is a lot of work lying ahead of us, but we will be looking forward to make a come-back against the Sharks and hopefully we can make it a big one."

The last time these two sides met, the Free State held on for a narrow 12-10 win over the men from KwaZulu-Natal.

The team does have players from the Guinness Pro14 squad at their disposal, however, whether or not the coach, Daan Human, will opt to go this route remains to be seen.

Saturday afternoon's game at the Princess Magogo Stadium in Lamontville kicks off at 15:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport