A strong Stormers team opened the build-up phase to Vodacom Super Rugby with a 43-7 win over the Cheetahs in Harare before a mix-and-match selection featuring mostly fringe players followed up with a 57-14 win over the Eagles in George at the weekend. Coach Robbie Fleck was pleased with what he got from the Outeniqua Park outing, particularly as it was a wet weather game.
“In the first half the ball was like a piece of soap and it was a good opportunity for us to play a bit of territory. Our forwards got stuck in, which was very pleasing, especially with a young pack,” said Fleck.
The Stormers scored nine tries, most of them in the second half, but what pleased Fleck most was less the result than the way his men put it all together.
“We played smart rugby and once we got in their half we put them under pressure, which is pleasing. Our lineout functioned extremely well and we scrummed particularly well against probably a bigger pack. In the second half when the ball dried out a bit and the pitch dried up we were able to move them around better which was why we scored six tries after halftime.
“Conditions dictated what happened in both halves so it was pleasing that we showed we can play it tight and then open it up when it dried up. There was a good blend of youth and experience and the boys stood up. There were a few mistakes but that was due to the conditions I think. There were pleasing performances from guys who have just come back from injury and from the youngsters.”
