John Dobson, head coach of the Stormers, recently lauded Warrick Gelant, the team's veteran fullback, for his pivotal role as the team positions itself for success in multiple competitions. This praise came after Gelant's standout performance in the Stormers' 33-14 victory over Edinburgh in the Vodacom URC at Cape Town Stadium.
In a match hampered by challenging conditions, Gelant's expertise shone through. He was instrumental in breaking the deadlock just after halftime by setting up Leolin Zas for a try, and later executed two perfectly timed passes that led to tries for Ntuthuko Mchunu and Evan Roos, cementing the Stormers' win.
The victory ensured the Stormers maintained their second spot in the URC standings, with their sights now set on the upcoming Investec Champions Cup last 16 clash against Toulon.
"We take a lot of heat about Boogie [Gelant]," Dobson said. "If you really understand what he brings, it’s one of the best rugby brains around."
Dobson expressed his frustration with the ongoing criticism directed at Gelant, emphasizing the fullback's critical behind-the-scenes actions that often go unnoticed. "I’d say 80% of what he brings is unseen," Dobson explained. "He’s controlling things in the backfield, making decisions, putting people in the right places."
Gelant's synergy with teammates, like Damian Willemse and Zasi [Zas], especially in handling contestable kicks, was highlighted by Dobson as exceptional.
"I don’t understand the dislike of Warrick at all," Dobson commented. "It’s almost like a hatred at times, and I don’t think that’s fair on a player who gives so much."
With a resume that includes being part of the 2019 World Cup-winning Springbok team and possessing 70 caps for the Stormers, Gelant’s vast experience is deemed invaluable in a squad that thrives on cohesion. His regular presence on the field, playing significant minutes, is crucial especially in a demanding season.
Dobson hopes that this acknowledgment of Gelant's contributions will ease some of the undue pressures. "Hopefully people will give him a bit of breathing space now. I love him as a player," Dobson concluded, reaffirming his admiration and trust in Gelant's abilities.
As the Stormers gear up for their next European challenge, the team continues to rely on the seasoned prowess of players like Gelant, whose performances could very well be the key to their international success this season.
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John Dobson, head coach of the Stormers, recently lauded Warrick Gelant, the team's veteran fullback, for his pivotal role as the team positions itself for success in multiple competitions. This praise came after Gelant's standout performance in the Stormers' 33-14 victory over Edinburgh in the Vodacom URC at Cape Town Stadium.
In a match hampered by challenging conditions, Gelant's expertise shone through. He was instrumental in breaking the deadlock just after halftime by setting up Leolin Zas for a try, and later executed two perfectly timed passes that led to tries for Ntuthuko Mchunu and Evan Roos, cementing the Stormers' win.
The victory ensured the Stormers maintained their second spot in the URC standings, with their sights now set on the upcoming Investec Champions Cup last 16 clash against Toulon.
"We take a lot of heat about Boogie [Gelant]," Dobson said. "If you really understand what he brings, it’s one of the best rugby brains around."
Dobson expressed his frustration with the ongoing criticism directed at Gelant, emphasizing the fullback's critical behind-the-scenes actions that often go unnoticed. "I’d say 80% of what he brings is unseen," Dobson explained. "He’s controlling things in the backfield, making decisions, putting people in the right places."
Gelant's synergy with teammates, like Damian Willemse and Zasi [Zas], especially in handling contestable kicks, was highlighted by Dobson as exceptional.
"I don’t understand the dislike of Warrick at all," Dobson commented. "It’s almost like a hatred at times, and I don’t think that’s fair on a player who gives so much."
With a resume that includes being part of the 2019 World Cup-winning Springbok team and possessing 70 caps for the Stormers, Gelant’s vast experience is deemed invaluable in a squad that thrives on cohesion. His regular presence on the field, playing significant minutes, is crucial especially in a demanding season.
Dobson hopes that this acknowledgment of Gelant's contributions will ease some of the undue pressures. "Hopefully people will give him a bit of breathing space now. I love him as a player," Dobson concluded, reaffirming his admiration and trust in Gelant's abilities.
As the Stormers gear up for their next European challenge, the team continues to rely on the seasoned prowess of players like Gelant, whose performances could very well be the key to their international success this season.