The Stormers have called on an old ally to help them win the battle in the air against the Sharks.
Steven Morris, a former player and assistant coach at Australian rules football club Richmond, has returned to the Stormers as they prepare for Saturday’s URC coastal derby.
Morris was also brought in last season after the Stormers’ struggles under the high ball contributed to a 36-24 defeat against the Sharks at Kings Park. The Cape side had lost 30-19 to their coastal rivals at Cape Town Stadium the previous week, with their lineout also under pressure.
The Stormers’ aerial game became a strength after Morris’s arrival, and coach John Dobson has confirmed the specialist will be involved again for the coming matches.
“Steve is one of the best coaches I’ve worked with so far. He is here this week and for a few matches coming up,” Dobson said.
MORE: Dobbo on parking Gelant, Pead’s push
The Stormers have since become more dangerous when competing for kicks, while also improving their ability to pounce on loose balls.
“We enjoy it when the ball is in the air and also closing in quickly on the ball if it isn’t caught cleanly and spills loose,” Dobson said. “Previously, teams could hurt us with counter-attacks when they kicked deep against us. Now they kick shorter because they are aware of the threat we pose in that area.”
That threat will be tested by a Sharks side with Ethan Hooker on the wing. The Springbok was outstanding under the high ball during the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against the All Blacks, where the Boks’ aerial dominance played a major role in their series victory.
KEO: Bok stars set for derby fireworks
Gearing up to go hard this weekend. Let’s do this.
https://t.co/JFWS04TUUr
#STOvSHA @Vodacom #URC #inittogether https://t.co/jZXcHvu0V6
— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) October 8, 2026
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
The post Aerial guru on hand for Stormers appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
The Stormers have called on an old ally to help them win the battle in the air against the Sharks.
The post Aerial guru on hand for Stormers appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
