Pietersen slams cheap shot on Hooker
REACTION: Sharks head coach JP Pietersen was left baffled that no action was taken on Luke Morgan, who dived on Ethan Hooker after the Bok utility scored a try in the Sharks’ 17-21 defeat to the Ospreys on Saturday evening.
The Sharks’ season is hanging on a thread following the defeat to the Ospreys at the Brewery Field, but the result was overshadowed by the actions of Hardy.
Pietersen voiced his frustration post-match regarding the incident and confirmed the nature of the injury the Bok rookie suffered.
“Ethan’s injury was a massive blow for us.
“After scoring a try, the rules say you are not supposed to dive on a player, and rules are there to protect players, and sadly, that did not happen.
“He dislocated his shoulder. He is a massive presence for us, and to lose him after the first half was very disappointing and frustrating.”
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Regarding the outcome, Pietersen lamented his side’s missed opportunities and lack of execution – a recurring theme that defines the majority of the Sharks’ season this far.
“We got a lot of territory and possession and played some great rugby, which was positive to see and showed that we can be good when we stick to the plan,” Pietersen said.
“In saying that, we were not clinical or ruthless enough when opportunities came, and we created enough opportunities when we got into their 22.
“There seemed to be a lack of concentration, by losing the ball and letting Ospreys off the hook, with not converting opportunities into points.
“If you don’t take opportunities, you put pressure on yourselves to get the next play in, and the more pressure you put on yourselves, this resulted in the unforced errors we saw.
“We are very disappointed to not have come away with the result.”
On the positive front, Pietersen was left impressed by debutant Zekhethelo Siyaya, who showed that he is one for the future.
“Siyaya at fullback on debut was very impressive.
“He is just a kid, but did not look like a kid out there.
“Like I said before the game, mature head and a bright future ahead of him in the black and white jersey.
“He plays with freedom and exuberance, and that is good to see.”
