In a Good
Space
Following
back-to-back Vodacom United Rugby Championship victories at Hollywoodbets Kings
Park, the Hollywoodbets Sharks are well-positioned for the remainder of the
season.
Speaking
after his team’s 23-13 victory over Edinburgh Rugby on Saturday, head coach
John Plumtree explained that the team faced numerous challenges before and
during the game, but credited the way the team stuck to their task.
“We were
playing OK, we just didn’t finish all the opportunities we created and were
held up over the line one or two times, or one or two passes that just didn’t
stick,” he said.
“So these
are things we can improve on.”
Facing
challenges and meeting them head-on is the sign of a mature side and this was
something Plumtree was very happy with.
“I was
really pleased we didn’t get frustrated at half-time after dominating
possession and territory, and we started well in the second half and continued
to build pressure. The boys were ripping into their workload.
“It was a
difficult game, a lot was going on out there so it’s good that we got over the
line.”
While it’s
frustrating not always closing out the opportunities with a score, the positive
to read into that is the fact that the team is creating scoring chances.
“There’s
always something to work on, but it’s a lot easier when you’re winning,
especially the home games in front of our own supporters.
“The focus
for us has been to finish this season well, we want to do well at home for the
fans. There are lots of things happening behind the scenes: we’re growing our
game and our leadership and that’s really pleasing.”
Plumtree
admitted that Vincent Koch reporting early on Saturday morning that he was sick
and unavailable didn’t help their cause, compounded by other incidents.
“It was
difficult and we had to make adjustments, before and during the game. Emile van
Heerden was also sick and vomiting at half-time, we had only one forward left
on the bench, Vincent Tshituka had taken a bang to the knee as well, so there
was a lot happening.
“But I was
pleased the boys didn’t panic, they adjusted well.”
While the
victory was built off a professional and committed team effort, Plumtree had
words of support for the man of the match, Aphelele Fassi.
“I thought
he was outstanding. He’s been playing well all year, and although he’s prone to
making the odd mistake, that’s what happens with players who create something
special. He’s climbing right up there, he’s finding more consistency in his
game and it’s lovely to see how much he’s enjoying his rugby. He’s a genuine
attacking threat for us, but I thought he tackled really well. And that 50-22
kick of his was lovely, it was a big moment in the game.”
At this
stage of the tournament, and with the EPCR knock-outs looming, the
Hollywoodbets Sharks are in a good space.
“The nice
thing about our team is that it’s connecting on and off the field. The boys are
enjoying each other’s company, we have a good vibe going.
“There are
obvious challenges in our environment because I’m a new coach and there’s a lot
of work to be done, but the team is happy.
“We’re also
developing competition within the squad which was part of the problem for us at
the start of the season.
“Bongi
Mbonambi, Eben Etzebeth and Lukhanyo Am are doing a great job leading the
group. Ox Nche chimes in with his technical detail too. We have some nice
youngsters coming through too which is really good because they provide the
energy and newness to the group.”