The Stormers’ level of play is currently giving their supporters a reason to celebrate. Photo: Hansie Linde.
The Stormers will want to bring anything but wine to Harlequins this weekend when they play this English club in an important Champions Cup match in Cape Town.
According to John Dobson, the home team’s supporters can play a decisive role in the Capetians’ performance.
“It is certainly true that a home crowd fuels a team’s fire. After all, we often experience this when we play at the DHL Stadium,” said the Stormers coach.
He singled out last year’s semi-final and final of the United Rugby Championship as examples; the support that the Capetians enjoyed in these matches will be an experience that the players will cherish forever.
Now the Stormers coach is asking for the biggest crowd yet to encourage the home team to greater heights.
“Is there anything more enjoyable than playing in front of 50,000 spectators? It will mean so much to the players and supporters can simply enjoy the Currie Cup battle between the Western Province and Griquas after the Champions Cup showdown.”
In addition, good individual duels are expected.
André Esterhuizen will do his best to overwhelm the Stormers center combination, while Manie Libbok and Marcus Smith’s fly-half sword cross session is also on the menu.
???? Andre Esterhuizen made 4️⃣2️⃣ metres in contact in R 21 – more than any other player ????
???? Here’s how the centre has been doing so far this season ????#COYQ #MadeItReign @ReignBodyFuel pic.twitter.com/LmLjwM51XM
— Harlequins ???? (@Harlequins) March 29, 2023
However, Dobson warned his players to tread lightly – after all, Harlequins are a team that likes to play adventurous rugby; especially on the attack.
“I saw how they piled up 40 points against Exeter and they deserve praise for the type of rugby they play. To play in such a way in English conditions is actually incredible. We will have to be on our guard on Saturday and try to stop them from making the game too fast, because in South Africa they can run amok,” said Dobson.
Still, the Stormers don’t just lose on their home ground, as their 20 unbeaten games in the Cape attest. The momentum is on their side, but they will want the last laugh against Harlequins.
The action starts at 16:00 on Saturday and the match will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
