Mapimpi's warning to B&I Lions
STAT ATTACK: Makazole Mapimpi sent a warning to the British and Irish Lions with his performance against the Lions in the Rainbow Cup SA last week.
It was the Springbok wing’s first match back for the Sharks, following his stint in Japan and the 30-year-old looked deadlier than ever when he got the ball out wide.
After a slow start, Mapimpi eventually found another gear and tormented the Lions’ defence.
He played a big role in Phepsi Buthelezi’s try in the first half, before he got a try of his own in the second half after he weaved his way past several defenders.
In the 80 minutes, he racked up 72 running metres and beat 12 defenders, which would have sent a chill down the spine of some British and Irish Lions fans.
First game back for @TheSharksZA 🦈
✅ 80 mins played
✅ 72 metres carried
✅ 12 defenders beaten
✅ Player of the Match
…and THIS pearl of a score ⚡Take a bow, @Makazole16…#MondayMotivation #PRO14RainbowCupSA 🌈🏆 pic.twitter.com/vlyw8KqcFJ
— PRO14 RUGBY (@PRO14Official) June 7, 2021
A world-class wing
Sharks coach Sean Everitt was full of praise for his star after the 33-21 win at Ellis Park.
“Mapimpi was outstanding. I don’t think he has ever played a bad game of rugby in his life and his work rate on the field is unbelievable,” said Everitt.
“People always ask how does he get so lucky to get the ball in his hands to score tries. He actually works for it.
“It’s great to have a world-class wing like that and that finish for his try in the second half just showed everyone what class he has.
“So, it is great to have him back, but he also adds a lot off the field as well. He is well respected by all the players and very well-liked.”
Mapimpi is one of eight outside backs included in Jacques Nienaber’s 46-man squad for the British and Irish Lions Series.
