Aphelele Fassi injury concern with Bulls test looming

Returning from an ankle injury, Fassi made an immediate impact by scoring a try, but his involvement ended after a heavy collision with Saracens forward Theo McFarland.

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Speaking in the post-match press conference, Pietersen confirmed that Fassi suffered a concussion and is expected to be sidelined for around 12 days, pending further medical assessment.

"Aphelele Fassi had a concussion. It is unfortunate that he was in fine form, he looked good on the field. And hopefully with a concussion he will be out for 12 days," said Pietersen.

The bonus-point win over Saracens marked a vital response from the Sharks following last weekend’s heavy Champions Cup defeat to Toulouse.

The result keeps the Durban side in contention in a tightly contested pool and delivered Pietersen his first victory since taking over on an interim basis.

While encouraged by the improved intensity and resilience, Pietersen acknowledged that the side must sharpen key areas of their game, particularly in aerial contests and converting pressure into points inside the opposition’s 22.

"It wasn't a perfect performance. We were under pressure, we lost some scrum penalties, we lost aerial battles. What we can work on - is that when score how do we transfer pressure, look into our set pieces and score more tries. Looking forward to the Bulls, no stopping, it is going to be the one," added Pietersen.

The Sharks now face a demanding run of fixtures, starting with a United Rugby Championship clash against the Bulls.

That is followed by a return to Investec Champions Cup action, with pool matches against Sale Sharks away on 10 January and Clermont at home on 17 January.

Pietersen noted that although the Sharks showed positive attacking intent against Saracens, lapses in sustaining pressure led to extended defensive spells, an area he believes will need improvement going forward.