The Stormers brace for a fierce battle against the Lions, warns coach Snyman. The Cape side's attack coach, Snyman, emphasizes the importance of staying focused and alert as the Stormers face a formidable challenge in their upcoming SA derby match. With a strong start to the season, winning their opening eight games, the Stormers are now gearing up for a crucial match at the Cape Town Stadium.
Snyman highlights the need for the team to capitalize on their home advantage, stating, 'We did well on the road, but it won't matter if we don't perform at our best at DHL Stadium.' Derby games, he adds, are intense and can swing either way, especially when played at home.
The coach also mentions the importance of maintaining momentum and quickly regaining control when losing possession. He expects a brutal battle against a motivated Lions team, who have proven their strength in recent matches.
'You don't win at Loftus by accident,' Snyman says, referring to the Lions' previous victories. 'They have a dangerous lineup with skilled players who can cause trouble if we're not on our game.'
The Lions' set piece and effective breakdown play are areas of concern for Snyman, who notes that penalties can quickly put the Stormers on the back foot. With most of their games played in challenging conditions, the team has focused on set piece, defense, and kicking.
However, Snyman believes this match presents an opportunity to showcase their improved skills without neglecting the fundamentals. He mentions the powerful prop Neethling Fouche, who will make his 100th appearance for the Stormers, as a testament to the team's resilience.
Coach John Dobson agrees that the Lions are a formidable opponent, despite their recent defeats. He mentions key players like Henco van Wyk and Quan Horn, who can significantly impact the game. Dobson emphasizes the importance of respecting the opposition and maintaining a high level of intensity.
The Springbok fullback, Damian Willemse, is still recovering from an injury and will not participate in the match. The focus now shifts to the upcoming URC fixtures, with the Stormers set to face the Lions at 3:30 pm, followed by the Sharks vs. Bulls at 6 pm.
