Sharks coach JP Pietersen has explained why Vusi Moyo will start Saturday’s URC opener against the Ospreys at Kings Park, with Jordan Hendrikse missing out. MORNÉ ESBEN reports.
Hendrikse had been in the mix after recovering from a lengthy back injury and getting game time in the Sharks’ pre-season hit-out against the Lions. But Pietersen confirmed that the playmaker had another setback and was unavailable for selection, handing Moyo the No 10 jersey.
Pietersen, however, is confident that the former Junior Bok will drive the team well and continue building on the skill set that’s seen him become a Springbok this season.
“Jordan’s got a little niggle, that’s why he’s not up for selection this week,” Pietersen said.
“Vusi has been showing promising signs the whole pre-season. He’s led well and been with the group the whole pre-season, so that’s why he’s in the pivot role tomorrow.”
TEAM: Moyo to marshal Sharks in URC opener
Moyo will operate alongside a new-look midfield combination, with Murray Koster and Jurenzo Julius named at inside and outside centre respectively.
The Sharks face an Ospreys side that has Australian recruits Lawson Creighton and Lalakai Foketi in midfield.
Pietersen believes that could make for an intriguing tactical battle.
“They [Koster and Julius] are definitely up for the challenge. The Ospreys also have a new midfield.
“The Aussie guy [Foketi] came from the Chiefs. If you look at Super Rugby and the background of Australian guys, they love to move and hold the ball. So we’ll see tomorrow if that’s going to be the same, with possession, holding the ball for long periods of time and trying to break down the defence.”
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Pietersen is also wary of the Ospreys’ mobile back row, which contains six-Test Wallaby Liam Wright.
“They’ve got a good loose trio that can move and also has good footwork. So, ja, it will be interesting to see what impact all those guys will have on our space tomorrow.”
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
The post JP reveals Hendrikse setback appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Sharks coach JP Pietersen has explained why Vusi Moyo will start Saturday’s URC opener against the Ospreys at Kings Park, with Jordan Hendrikse missing out.
The post JP reveals Hendrikse setback appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
