Attack coach Dawie Snyman has warned the Stormers they must be switched on against the “dangerous” Lions on Saturday.
The Cape side is bracing for a typically bruising, fast-paced Vodacom URC derby against the Lions when the teams meet at Cape Town Stadium.
Snyman said the Stormers’ impressive results on tour had created confidence, but insisted that momentum must be reinforced at home.
“We did well on the road, but that’s not going to count for anything if you don’t capitalise at DHL Stadium,” he said. “Derby games are always big – it’s almost like a double swing with the points, especially when they’re home games.”
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Tighthead prop Neethling Fouché who is in line to make his 100th Stormers appearance if selected for the clash, echoed the derby sentiment, stressing that reputations mean little on the day.
“It’s an SA derby – you can never think you’ve arrived,” he said. “You give the Lions the respect they deserve, do the hard work during the week, and then you still have to pitch up on Saturday.”
Snyman expects a fierce contest against a Lions side that has already shown its credentials this season.
“You don’t go to Loftus and win by accident, and they proved that a couple of weeks ago,” he added.
“They’re a dangerous side with individuals who can hurt you if you’re not switched on. Their set-piece is good, and like all SA derbies, there’s always a sting to it. Every contest becomes a battle – breakdowns, aerial contests, everything.”
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Snyman acknowledged that the Stormers have at times struggled to fully control matches, pointing to discipline and momentum as key focus areas.
“You’re never going to have momentum for 80 minutes,” he explained. “The big thing is how quickly you can get it back when you lose it. Against quality sides, a few penalties in a row can keep you stuck in your own 22, and that’s where you lose your grip.”
He referenced the Investec Champions Cup clash against La Rochelle in Gqeberha at the weekend where, although the Stormers ran out comfortable 42-21 winners, they went long periods without being able to exert control.
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With more conducive playing conditions back home in Cape Town, Snyman believes there is scope for further growth in attack.
“Most of our games have been up north, where conditions force a different approach,” he said.
“You focus more on set-piece, defence and kicking. Back home, you can feel the speed of the game is different, so it’s a chance to develop that part of our game without losing sight of the basics.”
Snyman also confirmed that Springbok fullback Damian Willemse is continuing his recovery from injury and not in contention for the Lions clash.
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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