Sean Everitt says Eben Etzebeth’s pre-game “homework” paid off after the Springbok titan won Man of the Match on his Cell C Sharks debut in a win over Glasgow Warriors on Saturday.

Etzebeth was dominant in the lineouts and open play in the 40-12 bonus-point victory in Durban, with several power runs and deft passes on attack, while his defence was highlighted by a huge hit on Glasgow hooker George Turner.

Speaking on Eben’s performance after the Vodacom United Rugby Championship clash at Kings Park, Everitt told reporters: “Like I said during the week, he has fitted in really well. He did his lineout homework last week, and he obviously did it thoroughly because he was outstanding in the lineout, both on attack and defence.

“And obviously, his all-round play was much to be admired. What a great start for him and like I said, he is one of the best players in the world, if not the best lock in the world, and he certainly played like that tonight and deserved Man of the Match.”

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The Durbanites went into half time 13-7 in the lead after a first 40 minutes underpinned by poor handling and a stuttering rolling maul. But, the introduction of a flurry of Bok stars after the break reinvigorated the hosts and helped bag them four tries. 

Everitt said: “We encourage the players to problem solve on the field; we can solve those issues in the week but not on a Saturday afternoon and the messages we get on the field aren’t going to solve that, so we’re pleased by how we adapted.

“To be fair, it’s one of those games where your starting lineup does the hard yards and lays the foundation and tires out the opposition.

“Unfortunately for them, they had a few injuries that did help our cause but I’m taking nothing away from our boys … there was a big impact off the bench.

“Eben was immense in disrupting their lineout while at the same time we got quality ball from Hyron [Andrews] and Eben. When your lineout functions, you’re laying a good foundation to attack.”

On Etzebeth’s fellow debutant, Vincent Tshituka, the Sharks coach added: “We’re happy with Vincent as well … he woke up with gastro symptoms and was so excited to play and push through.

“He probably didn’t feel that great today, but he certainly played well enough.”

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