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Trendy Talk on the URC:
The Stormers and the Bulls faced some harsh blows in the recent URC battles. The Capetonians suffered a 24-14 loss to Toulon, and the Bulls were walloped 27-5 by Saracens, setting the stage for our South African Dream Team of the Week. A whopping 11 Sharks players stole the show, with four Stormers and a single Bulls veteran joining the action.
The Rugby Verdict:
15: Aphelele Fassi (Sharks)
Despite enduring a nasty head knock, Fassi stormed back with a standout performance. His superb footwork on the counter-attack sparked momentum and kept Exeter chasing shadows.
14: Suleiman Hartzenberg (Stormers)
Hartzenberg's impactful game highlighted his exceptional skills. His half-break and offload set up Warrick Gelant's try, and his vital intercept snuffed out danger.
13: Ethan Hooker (Sharks)
Hooker’s unparalleled speed, power, and skill gave his Bok dreams a much-needed boost. His incredible offload for Grant Williams' try showcased his versatility and left spectators in awe.
12: Andre Esterhuizen (Sharks)
Esterhuizen's workhorse attitude and rugged running got the job done, while his delectable skip pass put Kolisi over for a beautiful try. He also won a crucial turnover on the deck.
11: Makazole Mapimpi (Sharks)
Mapimpi once again delivered a spectacular show, proving he's no one-hit wonder. His aggressive style saved a try early on, played a part in the Sharks' opening try, and scored the subsequent one. He used his determination to keep a hold of a box kick, leaving his opponents breathless.
10: Jordan Hendrikse (Sharks)
Hendrikse showed his class with good work and efficient decision-making. He skillfully set up Kolisi's try with a lovely offload, slotted six out of seven kicks at goal, and placed creative line kicks while delivering a physical defense. His versatility was also apparent as he stepped in for fullback duties at the end of the match.
9: Grant Williams (Sharks)
Williams was absolutely exhilarating, contributing significantly to the team's success. He had a hand in two tries, played impressive support play to score one himself, and balanced his game with accurate box kicks.
8: Siya Kolisi (Sharks) - Player of the Week
Kolisi delivered a powerful Man of the Match performance as the Bok skipper. An ever-present threat in the wide channel, he displayed cool, calm, and collected finishing skills to score two tries. He also made three line breaks and showcased his athleticism and unstoppable drive throughout the match.
7: Phepsi Buthelezi (Sharks)
Buthelezi stepped up in a big way, taking over when Vincent Tshituka went down early on. His explosive power and athleticism resulted in the Sharks' opening try, and he proved to be a force to be reckoned with throughout the match.
6: Dylan Richardson (Sharks)
Richardson brought tangible energy and an unmatched work rate to the table after entering the fray in the 12th minute. He made a match-high 18 tackles and showcased his dynamic break in the 62nd minute. His versatility also came in handy as he shifted to hooker at the end of the game.
5: Ruben van Heerden (Stormers)
Van Heerden was right in the thick of the action, making a threatening impact as a ball carrier with eight hit-ups. He charged down Baptiste Serin's kick, got around on defense, and managed to steal one of Toulon's lineouts.
4: Ruan Vermaak (Bulls)
Vermaak threw himself into the action, taking charge against Saracens. A physical force and workhorse, he made a team-best 14 tackles and pilfered a lineout steal in his 22.
3: Neethling Fouche (Stormers)
Fouche proved a stellar leader for the Stormers, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the team. He performed exceptional donkey work, shored up maul defense, and played a crucial role in relieving pressure on the team's 5m line with a timely scrum penalty win.
2: Joseph Dweba (Stormers)
Dweba celebrated his 50th Stormers appearance with a dazzling performance. His raw power was evident as he made good post-contact meters and dominant tackles. His spot-on lineout throwing alongside a timely try just before halftime made him an essential asset to the Stormers.
1: Ox Nche (Sharks)
Nche delivered a world-class, all-round effort, setting the tone for the game with a powerful first carry. He executed crucial cleanouts that set up Buthelezi's try, dominated the scrums, and consistently demonstrated his work ethic on defense, making 11 tackles.
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16: Thorn (Toulon)
Thorn's strategic leadership shone in the tight match against the Stormers. His exemplary distribution at the breakdown and piercing kicks laid the foundation for Toulon's attacking strategy.
17: Carlu Sadie (Stormers)
Sadie's forceful scrummaging and resilient defense were integral to the Stormers' front row, despite their loss to Toulon. His collisions on the deck showcased his physicality and always seemed to ignite motivation within the team.
18: Michael Kumbirai (Saracens)
Kumbirai's immense effort for the Saracens helped slow down the Sharks' momentum. His important scrummaging and solid tackling were critical in their 27-5 victory over the Bulls.
19: Salmaan Moerat (Stormers)
Moerat's dynamic impact off the bench breathed new life into the Stormers' lineup. His relentless tackling and lineout winning skills provided the grit needed to keep up with Toulon, despite their defeat.
