Aphelele Fassi: Giliomee and Siyaya have ‘massive future ahead of them’

Junior Springbok utility back Luan Giliomee celebrates scoring a try against Georgia. Picture: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images Junior Springbok and SA A sensations Luan Giliomee and Zekhethelo Siyaya have been “phenomenal” in the way they have played, and they have incredible futures ahead of them if they keep it up, said Springbok fullback Aphelele Fassi. The teenage utility backs enjoyed a prodigious debut season in the Sharks senior side after Fassi and their fellow Junior Bok teammate Jaco Williams suffered injuries.

Nineteen-year-old Giliomee, who was onceused by the Blitzboks, and Siyaya, 18, lit up the Sharks’ backline. They each scored a try despite only playing two and four games, respectively, in the United Rugby Championship. They were both selected to play for SA A in the young side’s40-0 whitewash of Zimbabwein June.

Giliomee played well there and moved from fullback to flyhalf after Yaqeen Ahmed’s red card. Siyaya, at wing, almost scored three times beforegoing off for a concussion. Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stickheaped praiseon the players for their performances.

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Unfortunately, Siyaya’s injury saw him miss the U20 World Championship in Georgia, though Giliomee was instrumental in helping South Africasuccessfully defend the title. While injured, Siyaya had time to tellThe Citizenabout hisdreams of playing for the Springboks, and how consistently turning in performances at the Sharks would help him get there. Giliomee has since made his Currie Cup debut for the Durban union, and with Fassi moving to Brave Lupus Tokyo, he, Siyaya and Williams are set to drive the Sharks’ success in the URC after another disappointing season last year.

Williams already earned a debut appearance for the Springboks,scoring a try against Walesin the Nations Championship. One feels it is only a matter of time before Giliomee and Siyaya get called up, too.

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