Having finally made his long-awaited Hollywoodbets Sharks debut against Ulster last week, double Springbok World Cup winner Vincent Koch is confident the side will kick on and turn around what has so far been a disappointing campaign at the Tank.
The Empangeni-born 34-year-old came off the wood to help guide the men in black and white to a 22-12 victory: just their second in the URC all season. Despite the URC playoffs likely out of reach, there is still much John Plumtree’s men want to achieve in the months ahead.
“We’ve been trying new things, but we are building towards something,” he remarked. “I’ve said it previously as well, but the spirit of the boys is very good. They never back down, they never question anything, they always keep their heads up and that for me shows the team is getting closer.
“Getting a win definitely brings a different vibe into the group, especially on Monday – it was a nice feeling sitting in that team meeting. We’ve set out a few goals for the next few weeks and the rest of the season, and we ticked the first box against Ulster last weekend.”
Speaking about his first game, Koch was ecstatic to have made his first Sharks appearance having last played in France at last year’s World Cup.
“It was unbelievable. It was something I had waited a long time for, especially after the injury which took a bit longer than expected. But I think the medical staff and the coaches have all been very supportive and they didn’t pressure me to come back, they allowed my knee to actually get back to normal.
“To wear the jersey is a massive honour, especially it being a home game. It was an unbelievable experience. I never take playing for a team for granted and for me it was really special for me to do it with my friends, with my teammates.
“Of course, getting the win was even more special, not just for my debut but for the team, coaches and supporters as well.”
With a stacked honours roll that includes two Premiership medals as well as two Champions Cup titles, Koch knows what it takes to win at club level and his experience will be vital as the Durbanites continue their quest to put some respectability back into their name.
The side next faces Edinburgh in the URC at 3pm on Saturday.
