Lions get best of both worlds with Tshituka

SPOTLIGHT: Lions head coach Ivan van Rooyen says Vincent Tshituka’s growth as a player has been ‘positive’.

Tshituka produced a man-of-the-match performance in the Lions’ 37-19 win over the Stormers last weekend.

The 23-year-old was a constant thorn in the side of the Stormers. The flank set up the opening try before later adding his own name to the scoresheet.

Van Rooyen said Tshituka is a dynamic player who can perform different roles for the team.

“I think as a player his growth is awesome and positive,” said Van Rooyen.

“He is the kind of guy that can flourish in the loose and in the tight.

“I think the tight five gave him the opportunity to express himself.

“He has got a relentless work rate and a hunger to get better.

“I am really happy for him that he had that kind of game.”

Meanwhile, flyhalf Fred Zeilinga is a player Van Rooyen believes brings an extra edge to his team’s attack.

The 28-year-old produced a composed performance with ball in hand and contributed 17 points with the boot.

“I think he managed the game well,” said Van Rooyen.

“Fred has got a nice balance between the ability to attack from everywhere and manage the game for us.

“It would have been exciting to see him against Cardiff last week because he brings a bit of X-factor on attack for us.

“I am really happy for him.”

@rugby365com

Players’ Player of the Match for our match against DHL Stormers: @BurgerOdendaal! 🔥

• 75 minutes played
• 9 ball carries
• 128 metres carries
• 3 linebreaks
• 5 defenders beaten
• 3 offloads

Proudly brought to you by @fillyleather!#LionsPride pic.twitter.com/Cn28GWGWxZ

— Emirates Lions (@LionsRugbyCo) December 7, 2021