Sharks coach, JP Pietersen, dedicated his team's dramatic victory in the Cup of Challenges over the Lions with a score of 40:33 to the memory of Hayron Andrews. He noted that the performance demonstrated the character and identity he desires from his players during the tour.
Sharks secured the win at Stade de Gerland on Saturday when winger Latilele Bester scored a touchdown in the 82nd minute. This goal came shortly after Lion midfielder Baptiste Kuyyo's converted touchdown tied the home team's score at 33:33.
Pietersen stated: 'Today is a special day. Not only because of rugby, but also because Hayron passed away yesterday. It is quite emotional. We will definitely dedicate this victory to Hayron.'
Andrews, who suddenly died in France on Friday, spent most of his career with the Sharks, making over 100 matches for the Durban-based team before moving to the Lions after his time at Sale Sharks.
Pietersen was pleased with how his team fought until the final whistle to ensure a winning start to their European tour, which will continue with URC matches against Cardiff and Munster over the next two weeks.
He emphasized: 'Looking at the game, we deserved this victory. We have very special players in our group, and it was a team effort. There was a fight for 80 minutes, and finishing it like this was truly special.'
For Pietersen, this victory meant more than just the result; it was an opportunity for the Sharks to strengthen their bonds during the tour and demonstrate the qualities they should be known for. The coach added: 'We want to build connections during the tour, we want to show character, and we want to demonstrate our identity abroad. And obviously, today showed that there was a fight for 80 minutes. As head coach, this is what you can only wish for the guys: to fight for the badge, to fight for identity, and to fight for every teammate.'