The Emirates Lions secured a thrilling 23-22 victory with a try by newcomer Haashim Pead, after the final hooter, over the Hollywoodbets Sharks in their United Rugby Championship Round 9 match at Hollywoodbets Kings Park in Durban on Saturday, moving up one place to seventh on the URC Log.
Van Rooyen praised his team's leaders for their composure, especially while playing with a player down in the second half.
Van Rooyen also highlighted the team's growth and character in overcoming adversity. “We are a young team, not necessarily inexperienced. Guys like Ruan Venter and Quan Horn are only 24 or 25, but they’ve got 60 or 70 URC caps. I think the maturity and decision-making in the heat of the battle have definitely increased.”
The coach noted significant growth in the team's ability to manage the game when flanker Ruan Venter received a 20-minute red card early in the second half.
“Historically, we tend to get into our shell. Today, in adversity, the leaders stepped up and provided good solutions. I really felt in the 20 minutes we were a player down, we showed composure and some growth there.”
Van Rooyen also said that the team made critical adjustments at halftime, focusing on territory and executing their game plan more effectively in the second half.
At the post-match interview, Van Rooyen expressed pride in the victory, stating it “speaks to the group's belief, it speaks to the character and fight of the team, something we can be proud of.”
“My message in the last 10 minutes when the Sharks didn’t kick for poles, I said, here’s the opportunity to get back into the game. Conversely, from our side, I felt we missed two opportunities where we could have kicked for poles. Luckily it worked out in the end.”
Van Rooyen also praised Pead, who scored the winning try with seconds to go.
“Haashim is a special player. We’ve worked hard with him, in quickness and in the game plan. He’s had some nice exposure touring with us and seeing the picture. We are as excited about him as everyone else. I’m happy he could make the difference today.”