The Stormers have secured their place in the United Rugby Championship play-offs after two hard-fought away wins against the Dragons and Connacht.
Coach John Dobson praised his team’s never-say-die character but emphasised the need for them to start playing to their true potential in the upcoming play-offs.
Speaking to rugby365com, Dobson said, “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’ renowned character has pulled them through in recent matches, Dobson believes that the team should not rely on it as much 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 said.
The coach acknowledged that relying on character is fine on occasion but not all the time. “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 performance against Connacht, with 197 tackles at a 92 percent success rate, epitomises the team’s character.
Dobson attributed this to the special bond within 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 against the Stormers was their last home game before the stadium undergoes a revamp.
The Sportsground will see the construction of a new High-Performance Centre and North Stand, with the existing Clan Terrace and Clubhouse set to be demolished.
Dobson noted the emotional atmosphere before the game, 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 finish no higher than fifth and no lower than seventh, will complete their league fixtures when they host the Lions in Cape Town on 1 June. They will then hit the road in the quarterfinals, with their opponents yet to be determined in Round 18.
As the team prepares for the play-offs, Coach Dobson has implored his players to showcase their true potential and not rely solely on their character to win matches.
With their place in the play-offs secured, the Stormers will look to build on their recent successes and make a strong push for the title.