JP Pietersen says the Sharks showed their true identity in a dramatic 40-33 EPCR Challenge Cup win over Lyon at the Stade de Gerland on Saturday.
Lyon scrumhalf Baptiste Couilloud’s late converted try made it 33-33, but Sharks wing Litelihle Bester snatched victory for the visitors with an 82nd-minute try.
“If you look at the game, we deserve this win,” said Pietersen. “We’ve got some really special players in our group and it was a squad effort.
“There was fight for 80 minutes in the game and to finish it off like that was truly special.”
REPORT: Bester snatches dramatic Sharks win
For Pietersen, the performance meant more than just a winning start to the tour, which includes two URC matches against Cardiff and Munster over the next fortnight.
“We want to build connection on tour, we want to show character, and we want to take our identity overseas,” he said. “And clearly, today, you can see there was fight for 80 minutes.
“As the head coach, that’s all you can ask for, guys to fight for the badge, fight for identity, and fight for each teammate.”
The victory carried a deeper significance for the squad, who on Friday received the devastating news of Lions and former Sharks lock Hyron Andrews’ death.
“Today is a really special one,” said Pietersen. “Not just the rugby, but also with Hyron passing away yesterday. It’s quite emotional. We’ll definitely dedicate this win to Hyron.”
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
The post JP: Sharks showed who we are appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
JP Pietersen says the Sharks showed their true identity in a dramatic 40-33 EPCR Challenge Cup win over Lyon at the Stade de Gerland on Saturday.
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