Pietersen praises Sharks after Ospreys win, grateful to have Giliomee for one more game
Coach JP Pietersen said he could now only see Suleiman Hartzenberg as a Sharks player, while also lauding the departing Luan Giliomee.
Sharks coach JP Pietersen praised the young players in his team and new signings who contributed to their bonus-point victory over Ospreys in Durban on Saturday. Junior Springbok star Luan Giliomee, who nearly scored a hat-trick and was named man of the match, will leave the Sharks to join the Bulls after hosting Leinster the following weekend.
Six players made their debuts for the Sharks as they won 41-24 at Kings Park, securing their second-ever victory in a United Rugby Championship season opener. The win was significant as the team finished 10th the previous season, with several Springboks departing for other franchises and national team commitments. New Sharks stars, including late replacement Jaco Purchase, Ivan van Zyl, Darrien Landsberg, Suleiman Hartzenberg, Esethu Mnebelele, and Nemo Roelofse, played crucial roles in the win.
Pietersen commended Purchase, stating he "did everything right" after Murray Koster's minor back injury, and praised Hartzenberg, who seamlessly integrated into the team and displayed strong defensive skills. The coach also highlighted 20-year-old Vusi Moyo's impressive game, noting that he appeared to have played 100 senior games already.
Giliomee, in particular, stole the show at fullback with his excellent defense and attacking prowess, scoring a try and nearly achieving a hat-trick before being tackled during a kick-and-chase. Pietersen expressed gratitude for having Giliomee with the team for one more game before he moves to the Bulls.
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