[2017 Super Rugby] Round 6: Stormers vs. Cheetahs (01/04/2017)

[TRF_stormer2010]

Very glad for the nature of the win. The Cheetahs didn't pitch up sure but we kept up the intent and intensity throughout which I'm happy for and overall it just seems the accuracy is now there which we've lacked in the past. We've had a good pack for some time now but now it seems the backs are up for it and Schalk Burger is no longer standing at first receiver and though Jaco van Wyk looks to have found a rich vain of form at the Sharks this year, I just can't help thinking of him and not remember an endless stream of missed chances due to spilled balls. He wasn't the only culprit. Bokke they may be but DDA and JdJ are just as likely to kill the ball as not. Dan du Plessis needs to play at 12 though ahead of Dan Kriel who has al of De Allende's faults without but not quite the engine. I still back DDA long term though if he can work on his soft skills which he has shown in the past. In EW Viljoen and SP Marais we've found some play-making skill to back up Du Preez and Du Plessis who add depth at 10. Hope we can keep these guys together for some time! Also hoping Jano Vermaak is okay but TBH Duvenhage, Philips and Masimla aren't much of a step down and these three are all about on a par for me even if what they offer is slightly different. Pity about Senatla but its not as if Lleyds and Kolbe don't have x-factor. Notshe adds the power we've lacked out wide and we don't need him to play in tight with PsdT playing like 2 flankers.

Marais has always been a decent fullback and I wondered what happened to him when he went to the Bulls. Looks like he spent the time the Bulls kept him from the field looking at Ben Smith highlights packages because that's what his current play is reminding me of. At 28 i wonder if AC is looking at him for a Bok berth but to my mind him and Coetzee look the most consistent fullbacks in SA ATM. Great to have options outside of hoping Le Roux doesn't bottle it and playing Lambie out of position. Bosch is also one to keep an eye on. But then with AC in charge till 2019 these players won't be allowed the freedom they enjoy at SR level so no point hoping. Marais in 3 starts is leading all sorts of stats columns. I was keen on Vermaak being available and was thinking Marais would steady the ship at the back but didn't expect him to be coming into the line and playing at 1st receiver like he has. We have tough competition coming up. I'm excited to see us finally tested.

 

[Makos]

Good result for the Stormers giving them some momentum going into the Chiefs game and ahead of a challenging tour. It's going to be a tight game.

 

[TRF_stormer2010]

Shaun Treeby in for the Stormers on a short term contract to shore up the centers. Good call from the top brass. With JdJ, DDA and Jones out EW Viljoen has stepped in big time and while Dan du Plessis has covered well we don't have any further depth- I havn't been impressed with Dan Kriel myself. Think Treeby should fit in well between Du Pree/Du Plessis and Viljoen. Exciting times. Now we just need Senatla and Vermaak to be 100% and we'll a have a backline to complement our pack. Kitshoff on is way back home next year. Hope we see the good signings continue and the youngsters continue steping up!