The absence of a player as influential as Damian Willemse would once have dominated the build-up in Cape Town, but the current mood around the DHL Stormers tells a very different story, Cape {town} Etc reports.
With the side riding an eight-match unbeaten streak across the URC and the Investec Champions Cup, attention has shifted away from individual losses and towards the depth built under head coach John Dobson.
Willemse, whose versatility and talent have often been central to the Stormers’ plans, has featured in only two of those eight unbeaten matches, yet the team’s momentum has barely dipped.
His unavailability for Saturday’s first URC derby of the season against the Lions at DHL Stadium is therefore not sparking the concern it might once have done, even after the setbacks his absence caused last season, including the quarterfinal defeat to Glasgow following his suspension.
Attack coach Dawie Snyman has confirmed that a lingering hamstring issue, which also ruled Willemse out of the recent Champions Cup outing against La Rochelle in Gqeberha, will again keep him sidelined.
With Dan du Plessis also facing more than a month on the sidelines, the responsibility at inside centre is expected to remain with Jonathan Roche, who has quietly impressed during his recent appearances against Bayonne and La Rochelle.
Cape {town} Etc Discount Alert!
Unlock Cape Town’s best experiences for half the price! From unforgettable adventures to hidden gems and mouthwatering restaurants, these limited-time deals won’t last long. Snag your discount before they’re gone!
Despite the Stormers’ strong position on the URC log and a healthy gap between themselves and the Lions, Snyman has cautioned against complacency, describing South African derbies as fixtures that naturally narrow the gap between teams.
History backs up that warning, with the Lions having handed the Stormers their only home defeat during the season in which the Cape side lifted the inaugural URC title.
Snyman has stressed that the Stormers’ five straight overseas victories will mean little if they fail to deliver in front of their home supporters, pointing to the significance of derby fixtures and the points swing that comes with them.
He also highlighted the Lions’ recent victory over the Bulls at Loftus as proof of their threat, noting their physical set-piece and ability to punish lapses in concentration.
While pleased with the unbeaten run, Snyman admitted there are still areas needing refinement, particularly discipline, which has at times allowed opponents back into matches.
However, he views the team’s ability to lose and then quickly regain momentum, as seen against Bayonne and La Rochelle, as an encouraging sign as the Stormers prepare to return to domestic action.
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join!
Also read:
Cape Town dances into summer as Klopse Voorsmakie steals the show
Picture: Ashley Vlotman / Gallo Images
