- JP Pietersen has identified encouraging signs from the Sharks' difficult afternoon in Cape Town, with their response offering something to build on
- The Sharks coach believes his players demonstrated a quality that could prove valuable as they prepare for their next challenge
- Despite the result, Pietersen has reasons to remain encouraged by his team's performance against one of the URC's established sides
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Sharks coach JP Pietersen has praised his players' resilience after their 39-22 defeat to the Stormers in the United Rugby Championship (URC) on Saturday, 10 October 2026. Despite losing two key players to injury and playing with 13 men, the Durban side kept fighting against their Cape Town rivals.
The Sharks scored three tries but conceded six, ending their unbeaten start to the competition at DHL Stadium.
Pietersen highlights Sharks' fighting spirit
Pietersen believes the team's response under pressure was a positive sign, especially given the challenges they faced.
“A few years ago, we would easily lose by 60 points with 13 men, but we showed character and should build on that,” he said after the game, according to Rugby365.
The coach acknowledged areas for improvement but insisted the performance offered lessons the team could carry forward.
“There are some positive things,” Pietersen said. “Nonetheless, there is some good stuff we can look at. The team have really shown resilience.”
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Sharks coach credits Stormers' quality
The Sharks were without Vusi Moyo and Eben Etzebeth for significant portions of the contest after both players left with injuries.
Matt Romao and Manu Tshituka were sent to the sin bin in the first half, adding to the visitors' difficulties.
However, Pietersen also credited the Stormers, praising their quality and ability to limit mistakes.
“They made very few mistakes. We made a lot of mistakes,” he said. “We have to give credit to the Stormers.”
Sharks look ahead to European challenge
The Sharks must now turn their attention to their European Challenge Cup opener against Lyon.
Pietersen's message was clear: the defeat exposed shortcomings, but his players' determination provides something to build on as they prepare for their next assignment.
Sharks receive double playmaker boost ahead of Lyon clash
Briefly News also reported that the Sharks are close to the return of Jordan Hendrikse and Jaco Williams ahead of their European Challenge Cup opener against Lyon.
Head coach JP Pietersen confirmed that both players had returned to team training and were progressing well. The potential reinforcements come as the Durban side manage several injury concerns.
Source: Briefly News
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