Sharks seek statement performance in Champions Cup opener against Toulouse

THE Sharks step into one of the toughest arenas in European rugby on Sunday when they face French giants Toulouse in their opening Investec Champions Cup clash in Toulouse, and loose-forward Nick Hatton says the squad has arrived in France determined to produce a timely response to their poor early-season form in the URC.

- ROWAN CALLAGHAN

Sharks loose-forward Nick Hatton says they're fighting as hard as to can to turn their season around, and hopes Sunday's Champions Cup clash against French giants Toulouse will be a watershed moment. | BackpagePix

(BackpagePix)

The Durban side have endured a frustrating start to their URC campaign, with last week’s 44-17 defeat away to Connacht marking their fourth loss in six matches. But Hatton says the mood in the camp has lifted since arriving in the south of France, where the conditions and change of environment have offered a timely chance to reset.

"I think the conditions in Toulouse this week have been really nice," Hatton said.

"It’s been quite fresh outside, but there’s been some lovely sunshine, which has been really nice to train in. The mood in the camp has been good."