Image: The Star
With a youthful backline set to feature in the Sharks’ United Rugby Championship clash against Zebre Parma at Kings Park on Saturday (1.45pm kick-off), coach JP Pietersen says the team’s experienced players will need to provide calmness, structure and leadership in key moments.
The Sharks head into their final league match of the season with several young backs in the starting mix, including Zekhethelo Siyaya, Jaco Williams, Bradley Davids and Lethelihle “Lilli” Bester, while Junior Springbok talent Vusi Moyo is poised to make his URC debut at flyhalf.
Pietersen said he was eager to see what the youngster could offer in the pivotal No 10 jersey.
“I’m excited to see what Vusi brings because we haven’t seen him at senior level in that position yet,” Pietersen said during Thursday’s media briefing.
“With a back three where everyone is under 23, it’ll also be interesting to watch how they combine and manage the game together.”
Siyaya has shifted from flyhalf to fullback after making his first start at pivot against Benetton last weekend, as the Sharks continue to battle a lengthy injury list in the backline. Wingers Edwill van der Merwe and Makazole Mapimpiare among the latest casualties.
Pietersen admitted the constant disruptions have made it difficult for the side to build fluency on attack.
“In rugby, cohesion is everything, and cohesion comes from continuity and player availability,” he explained.
“If you look at our season, we’ve probably only had the same matchday squad together for two or three games at most. Injuries have forced changes almost every week, and naturally that affects attacking rhythm.”
He added that consistency in combinations is especially important at flyhalf.
“You can only develop real understanding when players spend time together on the field. When Jordan Hendrikse isn’t available, there will always be discussion around the No 10 role because he was our first-choice flyhalf last season when we reached the semi-finals.”
Despite the challenges, Pietersen believes the injury setbacks have opened the door for younger players to stake their claim.
“Hopefully Vusi grabs his opportunity on Saturday,” he said.
While the youthful selections offer a glimpse into the Sharks’ future, Pietersen stressed that experienced campaigners such as captain Andre Esterhuizen would play a crucial role in guiding the less experienced backs.
“With young players you get excitement and energy, but mistakes are also part of the learning process,” Pietersen said.
“The positive is having someone like Andre around them. His communication, leadership and organisation help settle things.”
The coach also praised Moyo’s composure despite his age.
“He’s still young, but he’s very mature in the way he approaches the game. He understands tempo and how to control a match.”
Pietersen added that the responsibility would extend beyond the backline, with the Sharks’ experienced pack expected to lay the platform up front.
“The forwards have to give us momentum and dominance at set-piece time. That’s what creates opportunities for the backs to attack with confidence.”
The former Springbok winger was equally complimentary of centre Jurenzo Julius after his standout display against Benetton, where he scored a hat-trick and earned Player of the Match honours.
“Jurenzo has had a frustrating season with injuries, but last week he was exceptional,” Pietersen said.
“His contribution on attack and defence, as well as his work rate off the ball, was outstanding. It was probably one of his best performances of the season.”
He also highlighted the influence Esterhuizen has had alongside the young centre.
“Andre complements him brilliantly with his communication and leadership. Hopefully Jurenzo can build on that performance and maybe even score four tries this weekend.”
Although encouraged by the victory over Benetton, Pietersen said the Sharks’ biggest issue throughout the campaign has been consistency.
“For us the challenge is always whether we can back up a good performance. We simply haven’t been consistent enough this season.”
He also warned against underestimating Zebre Parma.
“They’re a dangerous side, especially in transition, and they punish mistakes. We definitely can’t afford to take them lightly.”
Source: www.iol.co.za
