The Stormers have secured their place within the United Rugby Championship play-offs after two hard-fought away wins in opposition to the Dragons and Connacht.
Coach John Dobson praised his group’s never-say-die character however emphasised the necessity for them to start out taking part in to their true potential within the upcoming play-offs.
Speaking to rugby365com, Dobson mentioned, “These aren’t games we would’ve won a while ago. So it’s a nice feeling. It was tougher than we thought it was going to be, but it’s still a nice feeling.”
Relying on Character Not Enough, Says Dobson
While the Stormers’ famend character has pulled them by way of in latest matches, Dobson believes that the group shouldn’t depend on it as a lot as they do.
“Maybe we shouldn’t be relying on our character as much as we do. We aren’t putting away teams like we should,” he mentioned.
The coach acknowledged that counting on character is ok now and again however not on a regular basis. “Saying that, there is an amazing culture and work ethic across this group of players,” he added.
Stormers’ Defence Epitomises Team’s Character
The Stormers’ defensive efficiency in opposition to Connacht, with 197 tackles at a 92 p.c success charge, epitomises the group’s character.
Dobson attributed this to the particular bond throughout the group, saying, “For us to defend like that is not something we coach, it’s in the group. There is a very special caring for each other, to make Cape Town smile and be proud.”
Emotional Farewell at Connacht’s Sportsground
Connacht’s match in opposition to the Stormers was their final dwelling recreation earlier than the stadium undergoes a revamp.
The Sportsground will see the development of a brand new High-Performance Centre and North Stand, with the prevailing Clan Terrace and Clubhouse set to be demolished.
Dobson famous the emotional environment earlier than the sport, saying, “There was a lot of emotional stuff before the game, and with people who had passed away.”
Stormers to Face Lions Before Play-Offs
The Stormers, who can end no greater than fifth and no decrease than seventh, will full their league fixtures after they host the Lions in Cape Town on 1 June. They will then hit the highway within the quarterfinals, with their opponents but to be decided in Round 18.
As the group prepares for the play-offs, Coach Dobson has implored his gamers to showcase their true potential and never rely solely on their character to win matches.
With their place within the play-offs secured, the Stormers will look to construct on their latest successes and make a powerful push for the title.
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