A change in mentality and the return of World Cup-winning Springboks will transform the DHL Stormers after a challenging tour in Europe, writes MARK KEOHANE.
Writing for TimesLIVE, Keohane reflects on the Stormers’ fourth successive defeat in the Vodacom URC against Cardiff on Friday, and underscores the significance of player experience and strong on-field leadership.
He believes the Capetonians will learn from the 31-24 loss at the Arms Park, emphasising the need to prioritise securing victories over chasing bonus-point tries.
“The Stormers were well beaten in Glasgow in their tour opener, but in the final three tour matches they played themselves into winning positions, only to finish with a losing bonus point on each occasion,” Keohane writes.
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“It was this mentality that took them to two finals in the URC’s first two seasons, but circumstances and playing personnel have changed. The mindset should have reflected this. Take the points and bank the win.
“The Stormers’ World Cup-winning quartet will address the leadership issues. [Deon] Fourie will take charge, [Frans] Malherbe will anchor the set piece and [Manie] Libbok and [Damian] Willemse will bring conviction in their approach, whereas in the past month there has been just hope.”
Keohane also highlights the challenges of the URC, including early overseas travel ahead of Champions Cup commitments, and suggests that context is crucial in assessing the Stormers’ performance.
With the return to home matches, he expects the Stormers to improve in the URC standings, while noting the broader impact of Boks like Siya Kolisi playing in other leagues globally.
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