Coach Frans Steyn says the Cheetahs need to score tries against Stade Français in Amsterdam on Saturday.
The Bloemfontein-based franchise went down 42-12 to the Exeter Chiefs in their EPCR Challenge Cup opener at Sandy Park.
The Cheetahs conceded five tries in a one-sided first half, including three in the final 10 minutes before the break, which effectively ended the contest.
“They caught us out a bit in the first half and we were too defensive,” Steyn told Netwerk24. “With the type of team they have at their disposal, they punished us with their clinical execution. Those three tries just before half-time … that’s what really hurt us.”
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Still, Steyn believes his side showed enough resilience after the break to suggest they can threaten Stade Français, who beat Cardiff 38-17 in Paris.
“We were able to correct the mistakes in the second half,” he said. “I feel we created enough chances to get back into the game, but just couldn’t capitalise on them. We had them under pressure.”
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The Cheetahs scored only one try, through winger Munier Hartzenberg, but Steyn insists improved execution and possession could change their fortunes in Amsterdam.
“If we can hold on to the ball, finish better and cut out those soft moments, there’s definitely a chance to keep our campaign alive,” he said. “We’re going to have to score tries and make sure we win with a bonus point if we want to qualify.”
Photo: Bryan Keane/INPHO
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