Sharks coach JP Pietersen expressed satisfaction with the depth of the squad ahead of the match against Ospreys in the URC. The team concluded its pre-season program with an exciting 33-31 victory over Lions at Ellis Park stadium on Friday.
Although both Sharks and Lions scored five points, the decisive moment was the attack by the Durban team's backline in the final quarter, which allowed them to secure a tight win in this training game before the United Rugby Championship (URC).
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For Pietersen, the most encouraging aspect was not the final scoreline, but how the young Sharks team refused to give up despite Lions repeatedly applying pressure at home. Lions scored several times almost immediately after the start of the match, but Sharks continuously found the strength to fight back.
After the game, Pietersen noted: "Usually, teams give up when that happens, and usually we, as Sharks, fall behind. And then Lions bring out a full 15 new players. We always have difficulties when we see something like that. It was wonderful to see the young guys hold on in the fight until the end, and how they behaved and found a way back into the game."
The Sharks' attacking line demonstrated the individual skill necessary to complete a late comeback, which particularly pleased Pietersen after a tense pre-season period. He stated: "I am satisfied with what the pre-season period gave us and what we worked on as coaches, and then were able to implement it on the field. Lions, with the players they have, certainly challenged us both physically and with their relentless nature. So I am glad the lads held on in the fight. It wasn't perfect, but I am satisfied."
Pietersen also emphasized that Sharks achieved three main goals they set for themselves for the last friendly matches: giving key players valuable time on the field, avoiding serious injuries, and continuing to strengthen team identity. However, one problem arose: winger Yaw Penxe had to leave the field after sustaining a back injury. Pietersen added: "I hope it is not too serious."
On a positive note, the match featured the successful return to action of several stars: midfielder Jordan Hendrikse played 40 minutes, and lock Jason Jenkins also participated in the game. Pietersen remains hopeful that Jurenzo Julius and Murray Koster, who suffered minor ailments in the previous victory over South Western Districts, will be able to return to full training next week. He explained: "Jurenzo has a small ankle issue; it's not too serious. I hope he and Murray Koster can train next week."
The Durban team now has just over two weeks to prepare for its first URC season 2026/27 match against Ospreys at Kings Park on September 26, and then participate in the second round against Leinster. Pietersen believes that starting the campaign with two home games gives his team the ideal foundation to build on the momentum gained in the pre-season. He concluded: "These two friendly matches provide confidence, unite the team, and increase squad depth. It is exciting for us to start at home. This is the first time Sharks are playing their first URC match at home, so it is exciting. I hope the fans come and make it a spectacle."