Dobson: Stormers to give Champs Cup 'full go'
12/06/2024 11:13 AM
Recent results and injuries won't deter the DHL Stormers as John Dobson’s men gear up to tackle French giants Toulon in the Investec Champions Cup in Gqeberha on Saturday.
The Stormers will chase redemption and European glory at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, with Dobson promising an all-out assault despite their challenges.
Joseph Dweba and Willie Engelbrecht are set to earn their 50th caps in a match that represents a turning point for the Capetonians after a tough start to their Vodacom URC campaign.
The Stormers have been bolstered by Seabelo Senatla’s long-awaited return from the bench, while Neethling Fouche takes over captaincy from the injured Dan du Plessis.
“We want to have a full go tomorrow, because once you lose a home game in this competition you’re pretty much gone,” Dobson told reporters on Friday. "[Toulon] have brought everyone who is fit and available.
"So we'll go for it at home, and see what next week looks like. We do have to repair the damage in the URC over those two local derbies, so maybe next week is a bit of a mix and match [in terms of selection].
TEAM: 50 up for Stormers duo on Senatla's return
"It certainly will not be an out-and-out second team. If we get [the win over Toulon], then we're alive in this competition and that ramps up next week.
"If something goes wrong tomorrow… we might have to be a bit more circumspect. But it's also very important for us not to show the tournament any disrespect, because we're lucky to be in such a great tournament."
The director of rugby acknowledged the threat posed by Toulon, currently fourth in the French Top 14 with seven wins in 11 matches. “They’re an immense team with a good set piece, it’s going to be tough,” he admitted.
He was particularly wary of Toulon’s halfback combination of veterans Dan Biggar and Baptiste Serin: “Biggar’s game management is superb, as is his kicking. And Baptiste Serin was unbelievable when playing for France – he’s their game-driver with good service and X factor.”
The Stormers travel to the Friendly City missing several injured Springboks including Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Damian Willemse, Steven Kitshoff, and Frans Malherbe. Prop shortages have complicated matters, with Brok Harris joining an extensive injury list.
“The prop injury list is remarkable. If you had to take six or seven Springboks out of any team in the world, it would struggle,” Dobson said.
Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images
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