Ex Supersport
Following another scrappy match - the Hurricanes game had also been high on endeavour but low on composure and quality - it is tempting to believe there may be some mixed feelings in the Stormers camp about having a break next weekend before they contemplate the visit from New Zealand of the highly-touted but currently struggling Blues.
After all, there is a case for saying they lose an opportunity to iron out certain flaws in a match situation, and to possibly build further momentum results-wise.
But Coetzee welcomes it.
“The bye helps, I believe. We had a big pre-season, both in terms of conditioning and (friendly match itinerary) and there are already some niggles to deal with, so a break is OK.” (Also means injured players like Schalk, Elstadt and Deon Fourie miss one less match.)
Both captain and coach were quick to laud the performances of several rookies in their ranks, especially as they began to turn some forward screws fairly impressively in the final quarter after playing second fiddle in possession and territorial terms in the first half.
They pointed out that the Stormers closed out the match with several players in their pack who are not long out of their teens, including Steven Kitshoff, Frans Malherbe, Eben Etzebeth and Siya Kolisi.
All shone at various times during the game, with the prop combination of Kitshoff and substitute tighthead Malherbe producing some vital, big scrummaging heaves late on, Etzebeth confirming his relish for some “gun-smoke” in the tight-loose and Kolisi putting in strong tackles and fine general industry about the park.
De Villiers said it was a pleasure seeing so many young players come to the fore in a tight encounter, regardless of the error count in his team’s play, and also for retaining their composure after a first period in which they came under the cosh.
“The message at halftime was that we were only three points behind after they’d (the Sharks) created most of the play; so we could certainly (find a way back).”
After the Blues game in a fortnight, the Stormers face the Lions in Johannesburg and the presently buoyant Bulls back home before departing on their overseas tour
Well nice to hav eanother 4 points in the bag. Must down the Lions and bulle before going on tour. Lets get the pecking order understood!!!!!!!!!!!!!
