Following an exciting weekend of United Rugby Championship (URC) action, the Planet Rugby Team of the Week for Round Seven has been revealed. The selections highlight performances from a full slate of matches, with teams like the Sharks and Bulls leading the way with three representatives each. Zebre Parma is also acknowledged for their impressive victory over the Ospreys.
URC Team of the Week for Round Seven
15. Aphelele Fassi (Sharks): Known for his speed and skill, Fassi’s regular involvement with the Springboks appears to have elevated his club-level game. His performance against the Stormers was outstanding, characterized by his threat with ball in hand and reliability under the high ball. He narrowly edged out competitors such as Jimmy O’Brien (Leinster), Wes Goosen (Edinburgh), and Cam Winnett (Cardiff).
14. Canan Moodie (Bulls): Despite his coach Jake White joking about his form, Moodie delivered an exceptional performance. He was the weekend’s top metre-gainer and proved too much for Connacht to handle. Moodie was selected ahead of notable players like Ethan Hooker (Sharks), Jordan Larmour (Leinster), and Darcy Graham (Edinburgh).
13. Ben Carson (Ulster): Although Ulster narrowly lost, Carson made a strong case for his inclusion with two tries and powerful ball-carrying efforts. His contributions surpassed those of Henco van Wyk (Lions), who scored a spectacular try, and Owen Watkin (Ospreys), who excelled defensively.
12. Andre Esterhuizen (Sharks): Esterhuizen stood out in the Sharks’ win over the Stormers, making significant gains with 79 metres carried. His balanced play, both offensively and defensively, was crucial, earning him the spot over Marius Louw, who excelled defensively.
11. Simone Gesi (Zebre): The diminutive but dynamic wing was instrumental in Zebre’s win over the Ospreys, scoring two tries. His sharp performance edged out Munster’s Thaakir Abrahams, who also impressed in their victory over the Lions.
10. Callum Sheedy (Cardiff): Sheedy played a pivotal role in Cardiff’s win over the Dragons, contributing a try, four conversions, and a penalty. His accuracy with the boot helped keep the Dragons at bay during a late surge.
9. Embrose Papier (Bulls): Despite not yet breaking into the Springboks squad, Papier continued his fine form, expertly managing the game in tough conditions against Connacht. His performance signals his readiness for higher honors.
Standout Forwards in Round Seven
8. Siya Kolisi (Sharks): The Springboks captain delivered a standout performance with strong ball-carrying, a try, and key contributions in defense and at the breakdown, winning three turnovers. He was preferred over Jack Mann (Glasgow Warriors) and Gavin Coombes (Munster).
7. Bautista Stavile (Zebre): Stavile was instrumental in Zebre’s victory, making 18 tackles and performing solidly with the ball. His efforts outshone those of Nick Timoney (Ulster) and Ben Muncaster (Edinburgh).
6. Jack O’Donoghue (Munster): O’Donoghue delivered a tireless performance in Munster’s victory over the Lions, excelling in ball-carrying and defense. He earned the nod over Josh Macleod (Scarlets) and Jamie Ritchie (Edinburgh).
5. Teddy Williams (Cardiff): Williams impressed in Cardiff’s win against the Dragons, excelling in the lineouts, making two line breaks, and contributing a staggering 20 tackles.
4. Ruan Vermaak (Bulls): Vermaak stepped up in the absence of Ruan Nortje, playing a key role in the Bulls’ triumph over Connacht. His performance was highlighted by defensive solidity and lineout prowess.
3. Rabah Slimani (Leinster): The experienced prop played a key role in Leinster’s narrow win over Ulster, excelling in scrummaging during his 72-minute shift.
2. Johnny Matthews (Glasgow Warriors): Matthews continued to shine in attack, scoring another try to top the league’s try-scoring charts. His 14 carries and two turnovers were critical in Glasgow’s narrow win over the Scarlets.
1. Pierre Schoeman (Edinburgh): Schoeman was selected for his solid scrummaging and attacking contributions, including 14 carries, in Edinburgh’s match against the Stormers.
This team reflects the outstanding individual performances that contributed to thrilling matches in Round Seven of the URC.