Marcel Theunissen scored two tries on his return to the DHL Western Province team last week and is ready to empty his tank at DHL Stadium on Saturday.
Theunissen was one of a handful of Vodacom United Rugby Championship regulars who played for DHL Western Province against Griquas in Kimberley.
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The loose forward made 20 appearances in all competitions for the DHL Stormers and despite the disappointment that came with losing the Vodacom URC final, he is eager to get involved in Currie Cup action.
“For me, losing the Vodacom URC final was a difficult experience but it was a rewarding season. As a squad we were well prepared but it wasn’t our moment to carry the cup home,” said Theunissen.
“It wasn’t difficult to play for the Currie Cup following the Vodacom URC since any opportunity to step onto the field is a privilege for me, and I am always eager for new challenges.”
For Theunissen, playing in the Currie Cup and wearing the blue-and-white hoops comes with a sense of pride, given the history associated with the jersey and the players who have come before him.
“The Currie Cup is one of the oldest rugby competitions, so I am always proud to take part,” he said.
“For me, the Currie Cup is a place where a rugby player can express themselves the most and learn new things. It’s also a place where you can compare yourself to other players your age and see where you stand in terms of talent.
“It’s inspiring to me because most international players currently coming from South Africa began by competing in the Currie Cup and working their way up to international contracts. It’s an honour to play for DHL WP in the Currie Cup because they’ve always made history and won the cup a few times.”
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Theunissen scored a first-half double on his return to DHL WP to add to a tally of five tries for the DHL Stormers this season.
He credits teammates for helping him find the tryline so often.
“With every game and every try that you score there is a lot more to it than what you see. For me, the trick is you must constantly work harder than your opponent,” he explained.
“I always attempt to position myself in the best place by trying to be the first person at the ball. I always first check in front of me if there is any space before I make any decisions.
However, we must also keep in mind that any try scored is the result of a team effort rather than a one-man display.”
DHL Western Province are back at DHL Stadium on Saturday and next face the Cell C Sharks in the final round of the Currie Cup.
“As a union, we will constantly try to put our best foot forward and give our all,” said Theunissen.
“We are fortunate to have the best supporters, win or lose, as the Western Cape has always had our back,” he added.
Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images/BackpagePix