In the 79th minute, with the score at 10-7 in favor of Leinster, Sharks captain Siya Kolisi found himself at a crucial crossroads.
Positioned about 30 yards from the posts, Kolisi was faced with the decision of whether to kick for goal and secure a draw or take a risk by kicking to the corner in hopes of scoring a try before time expired.
The choice was a tough one, especially considering the game had been plagued by handling errors on both sides.
Kolisi Chooses Risk Over Safety
Opting for the corner, Kolisi went against the safer choice of a penalty kick, which would have leveled the score.
Coach John Plumtree, who preferred the points, reflected on the decision, acknowledging that it could have gone either way.
“I don’t like losing, so I probably would’ve preferred to go for the posts,” said Plumtree.
“But it was Siya’s decision on the field, he wanted to go for the win.”
Despite the penalty being the more conservative option, Kolisi’s decision to go for a try was motivated by his desire for a victory, rather than a draw.
Unfortunately, the Sharks’ attack failed to capitalize on the opportunity, and soon after the line-out, Leinster was able to secure the win.
The Aftermath of Kolisi’s Decision
Plumtree admitted that, in hindsight, Kolisi’s choice cost the team a point.
“It cost us one point, Kolisi not doing it,” he said. “But if we scored, then there would be a different conversation.”
While Kolisi’s decision could have been the spark the Sharks needed, it ultimately didn’t pay off, as Leinster’s defense proved too strong in critical moments.
In his comments, Plumtree also mentioned the experience of the Irish team in these types of situations.
“The Irish are masters at stuffing your ball up in those types of moments,” he explained.
“It’s feeling the moment, you know, and often the players feel differently out on the park than what we feel in the coaches’ box.”
A Hard-Fought Battle with Missed Opportunities
The game was a true test of strength and strategy, with both teams battling hard in the forwards and showing aggressive defense.
Plumtree noted that both sides made their fair share of mistakes, but in the end, it came down to one more opportunity that Leinster was able to seize.
“Bongi scored off the back of a maul earlier, that would’ve still been on Siya Kolisi’s mind as well,” Plumtree pointed out. “We just didn’t execute it.”
It was a frustrating loss for the Sharks, especially as they had their chances.
Yet, in a game so tightly contested, one decision can make all the difference, and unfortunately for Kolisi and his team, this one didn’t go their way.
What Would You Have Done?
Looking back at Kolisi’s risky call, what do you think you would have done in his shoes?
Would you have played it safe for a draw, or gone for the win? Share your thoughts with us by leaving a comment below or sending a message via WhatsApp.
We’d love to hear your opinion on this high-stakes moment in the game.
