Stormers weighing up flyhalf options for North-South derby

The Stormers are mulling over their options at flyhalf for Friday’s clash with the Bulls in Pretoria.

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The Bulls currently have a four-point lead at the top of the Rainbow Cup SA table, but a victory for the Stormers would draw the two sides level going into the closing stages of the tournament.

Whichever side tops the table is set for a showdown in Italy with the winner of the Rainbow Cup North.

In a match set to be close, the Stormers are weighing up their options at flyhalf. Youngster Abner van Reenen has made a real impression as a playmaker and is seen as the first choice despite his goal-kicking remaining an area of concern.

The Stormers could alternatively turn to the experienced Tim Swiel, whose pressure kick in the 80th minute helped the Stormers snatch victory away to the Lions two weeks ago.

Swiel is a seasoned campaigner having played rugby in Europe at Harlequins and could offer collectedness and game management.

The coaches, however, have refused to rule out the possibility of Damian Willemse donning the 10 jersey at some point again.

‘To be honest, we have been toying with flyhalf. Abner has been running there, Damian has got an opportunity [during training] because anything can happen in the game, so you have to be prepared if something happens to the 10 that we selected,’ Stormers assistant coach Lebeeb Levy commented.

‘Damian is the 15 but in the event that we need to adjust, we will utilise him at 10.

‘Obviously, Tim Swiel also had an opportunity during training, it is still a discussion point and nothing has been finalised.’

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