Veteran loose forward Dave Ewers is relishing the opportunity to tackle the Sharks for the DHL Stormers in the first coastal derby of the Vodacom URC in Durban on Saturday.
Speaking in the buildup to the Kings Park clash, Ewers is clear-eyed about the challenge awaiting the Stormers. With over 200 caps for Exeter Chiefs and a track record that includes a Champions Cup title victory, the 34-year-old brings a hard edge for John Dobson’s charges.
“If I’m playing, it will be an amazing experience,” Ewers, who joined the Stormers on a short-term deal in August, told reporters on Wednesday.
“You have to give them respect by giving your all and performing to the best of your ability. Anything short of that you’ll be left wanting.”
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With the Sharks boasting a Bok-laden lineup, the Stormers cannot afford a moment’s hesitation, and Ewers added: “Their confidence must be sky high, so it’s going to be a massive challenge going to their home stadium and performing there.”
The Zimbabwean-born Ewers’ journey to the Stormers is a childhood dream come true while his transition has been marked by a striking appreciation for tactical precision.
“Here, the attention to detail is really big,” he noted. “Everyone means to know their roles – something I’ve had to get right as a new player.”
Despite the Stormers’ inconsistent URC campaign, Ewers remains optimistic. “We’ve shown glimpses of what we can do,” he said. “As a group, we’re looking to perform more consistently.”
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