As the Stormers brace for a high-stakes clash against Glasgow Warriors this Saturday, Damian Willemse might reclaim his fullback role in a significant backline reshuffle. Recently forced to the right wing due to injuries and Dylan Maart's exit, Willemse's return to his more familiar position could be imminent as the team rethinks its strategy following a disappointing defeat to Connacht.
Last week's 33-24 tumble at home has set the stage for changes, with Stormers' head coach John Dobson hinting at a strategic pivot. "We can’t play Damian there (on the wing) forever. Maybe Seabelo (Senatla) is back this week, and we will see how Suleiman goes. The forwards’ selection might be straightforward, but the backs have a couple of permutations," Dobson revealed, showing his cards ahead of the crucial game.
However, assistant coach Dawie Snyman later confirmed that Senatla would miss this weekend's game, although Suleiman Hartzenberg is back in the mix after a stint with the Stormers XXIII. "He played for the U23’s this weekend, so he’s available," Snyman updated, indicating more flexibility in backline choices. Despite this, "Seabelo may only be ready for the quarter finals."
"Rugby has become highly-contested in the air, so there’s a lot of kicking and competing in the air and Damian is world class. So if we could have him in that position where he’s done really well for us on the wing contesting in those positions, it also frees him up to attack from almost anywhere on the field,"
Snyman elaborated on the tactical nuances that might influence their decision to move Willemse.
The Stormers' recent performance issues were also spotlighted by Dobson, who expressed frustration with the team's execution against Connacht. "We shovelled rubbish out there far too often," he lamented, pointing out the need for sharper finishing and more cohesive play as they prepare to face a Glasgow squad eager to rebound from their own 54-12 drubbing by the Lions at Ellis Park.
With critical decisions looming and key players returning, the Stormers are at a tactical crossroads as they aim to regain their footing in the league standings and push for a victorious outing against their Scottish rivals.
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As the Stormers brace for a high-stakes clash against Glasgow Warriors this Saturday, Damian Willemse might reclaim his fullback role in a significant backline reshuffle. Recently forced to the right wing due to injuries and Dylan Maart's exit, Willemse's return to his more familiar position could be imminent as the team rethinks its strategy following a disappointing defeat to Connacht.
Last week's 33-24 tumble at home has set the stage for changes, with Stormers' head coach John Dobson hinting at a strategic pivot. "We can’t play Damian there (on the wing) forever. Maybe Seabelo (Senatla) is back this week, and we will see how Suleiman goes. The forwards’ selection might be straightforward, but the backs have a couple of permutations," Dobson revealed, showing his cards ahead of the crucial game.
However, assistant coach Dawie Snyman later confirmed that Senatla would miss this weekend's game, although Suleiman Hartzenberg is back in the mix after a stint with the Stormers XXIII. "He played for the U23’s this weekend, so he’s available," Snyman updated, indicating more flexibility in backline choices. Despite this, "Seabelo may only be ready for the quarter finals."
"Rugby has become highly-contested in the air, so there’s a lot of kicking and competing in the air and Damian is world class. So if we could have him in that position where he’s done really well for us on the wing contesting in those positions, it also frees him up to attack from almost anywhere on the field,"
Snyman elaborated on the tactical nuances that might influence their decision to move Willemse.The Stormers' recent performance issues were also spotlighted by Dobson, who expressed frustration with the team's execution against Connacht. "We shovelled rubbish out there far too often," he lamented, pointing out the need for sharper finishing and more cohesive play as they prepare to face a Glasgow squad eager to rebound from their own 54-12 drubbing by the Lions at Ellis Park.
With critical decisions looming and key players returning, the Stormers are at a tactical crossroads as they aim to regain their footing in the league standings and push for a victorious outing against their Scottish rivals.