'He's only 19': Pietersen backs Sharks youngster to keep improving
REACTION: Sharks coach JP Pietersen believes youngster Zekhethelo Siyaya has plenty to improve on after another impressive outing in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) over the weekend.
Siyaya claimed the man-of-the-match accolade as the Sharks defeated Munster 15-3 in Round Five of the competition at Thomond Park.
Despite the wet conditions, the Sharks showed plenty of grit and determination, restricting Munster to only a penalty on their way to a historic victory.
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#REPORT: Sharks end European tour on a high, beating Munster in Limerick
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At the heart of the triumph was 19-year-old Siyaya, who caused the hosts plenty of problems with his attacking flair and explosive pace.
It was his third consecutive man of the match accolade, having starred against Lyon and Cardiff in recent weeks.
“It was a Man of the Match performance, but it also comes down to our pack that gives him the platform to do his thing,” Pietersen said.
“He’s a special kid and an unbelievable talent. He’s still 19; he’s learning as he goes.
“As coaches, we must be patient with him. Sometimes he will do some crazy things, which we like about him. He’s also a humble kid and hungry to get better.”
While Siyaya was impressive, there were also other contributing factors to the win.
The Sharks defence was immense, and on the other hand, they scored two tries through Gianni Lombard and Ivan van Zyl to take the game away.
“It’s a special win for us, the first time winning here as a Sharks organisation in the URC,” Pietersen added.
“You can see the physical effort from the boys; we showed that we were relentless, and it means so much more than just a game.
“Our defensive effort: we didn’t give them one try, and that just shows what the boys have been building in an environment where we, as players, care for each other as Sharks men.”
Pietersen is equally pleased with the culture developing within the Sharks’ camp, insisting his team is now more about actions rather than words.
“It’s beautiful to see with our actions and not just talk about how we fight for each other.
“We’ve got a good mix of guys getting along with each other, old, young, and in between. We enjoy each other’s company, and we make time for each other to connect.”
Reflecting on the successful tour which saw them win all three matches, Pietersen praised his leadership group.
“It was a difficult tour; it’s not easy to be away from family for three weeks.
“I’m just happy for the group that they can get a win. Some guys put a lot of effort in, putting their best foot forward, especially in week three.
“Unbelievable leadership from the group, guys like Nick Hatton, Emile van Heerden, Vincent Tshituka, Ethan Hooker and Vincent Koch.”
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