Sharks Prop Vincent Koch Shines with Stunning 50:22 Kick in Challenge Cup Final
On Friday evening, rugby enthusiasts were left in awe as Sharks tighthead prop Vincent Koch produced a stunning 50:22 during the Challenge Cup final against Gloucester. The South African powerhouse was named Player of the Match, delivering a superb scrummaging performance and showcasing his exceptional all-around skills.
“This [trophy] is probably the most special for me,” said a delighted Koch after the match. “Being in South Africa and playing for a South African team, haven’t won any trophies in South Africa, so being with the Sharks, first year back is unbelievable.”
With the Sharks looking to exit their own 22-meter area, Grant Williams executed a well-placed box kick, which Eben Etzebeth chased and competed for in the air. The pressure applied by Etzebeth led to a fumble by Gloucester full-back Santiago Carreras, and the alert Koch was quick to pounce on the loose ball.
Recognizing the open space in the backfield, Koch brilliantly dropped the ball onto his boot and unleashed a magnificent kick into the Gloucester 22, with the ball beating winger Jonny May to the touchline. This precise 50:22 kick was hailed on social media, with many labeling it as one of the best examples of this technical play.
While the Sharks were unable to capitalize on the resulting lineout, Koch’s masterful execution left a lasting impression on the rugby community. Some even questioned whether any other prop had achieved a 50:22 kick before, further highlighting the exceptional nature of Koch’s performance.
In addition to his game-changing 50:22, the Springboks star also provided an assist and shone in the scrums, earning the coveted Player of the Match award. This achievement is the latest addition to Koch’s impressive trophy cabinet, which includes two Premiership titles and two Champions Cup trophies with Saracens, as well as two World Cup victories and a British and Irish Lions series triumph with the Springboks.
The Sharks’ 36-22 victory over Gloucester marked the first time a South African team has won an EPCR trophy, and it also secures their qualification for the Champions Cup next season, despite a challenging United Rugby Championship campaign.
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