Stormers XXIII loose forward Louw Nel says Friday’s Currie Cup clash against the Vodacom Bulls XV at Loftus Versfeld is an ideal opportunity to catch John Dobson’s eye ahead of the next URC campaign.
The Stormers are sixth on the log heading into the penultimate round and must win to keep their semi-final hopes alive. They face the Lions at Ellis Park in the final round.
“It’s a good opportunity to make a bit of a statement,” Nel said. “The best way to get better is to be on the field. For me, coming back from an injury, it’s nice to be involved. I also enjoy the responsibility of being a bit more of a senior player.”
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The Stormers have also placed particular emphasis on their lineout this week after losing to the Pumas in Nelspruit.
“It’s one of the things we had to work on after the weekend,” Nel said. “We had the challenge this week of training against the Stormers’ URC team, which gives us a lot of confidence. As forwards, it’s our responsibility to lay the foundation so that the backs can come into their own.”
Despite the winless Bulls sitting at the bottom of the standings, Nel insists the traditional rivalry means Friday’s encounter will carry plenty of weight.
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“The north-south battle is always a very good game and everyone is more than ready,” Nel said. “We know it’s going to be very physical. We know what to expect and we’re prepared for it.
“It’s also important that we get league points from the remaining games.”
Coach Tom Dawson-Squibb will name his side on Thursday.
Photo: Dirk Kotze/Gallo Images
The post Nel: Stormers ready for north-south war appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Stormers XXIII loose forward Louw Nel says Friday’s Currie Cup clash against the Vodacom Bulls XV at Loftus Versfeld is an ideal opportunity to catch John Dobson’s eye ahead of the next URC campaign.
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