Libbok wants to make special connections with Stormers backs
MANIE Libbok has battled to find a proper rugby home in his career, but it seems like his search has ended following his move to the Stormers.
The former Junior Springbok is now 24, and played for the Bulls and Sharks previously.
But Libbok has seldom been given a fair opportunity to establish himself at either a flyhalf or fullback in the past, and he feels he is finally receiving that chance from Stormers coach John Dobson.
“I am really enjoying fitting into the team. The guys are very nice and they created that platform for me to come in and be myself and play my own game in the system. They said that the system is really fitting in with how I wanted to play, so I am really enjoying my time here, and looking forward to what the future holds,” Libbok said from Wales this week, where the Stormers are preparing for tomorrow’s United Rugby Championship clash against the Dragons (8.35pm kickoff).
“The backline is really exciting and I really enjoy playing with the guys. We have gelled and connected quickly, we just feed off each other’s skill-sets and energy on the field.
“There are a lot of talented guys in the backline, and here and there, just those connections with small things – if we can get that right, we will be quite dangerous going forward. I must put the team in the right areas of the field and put the ball in front of the forwards by being tactically aware, with kicks and stuff like that.”
Libbok relinquished the No 10 jersey to Tim Swiel for last weekend’s 20-20 draw with Edinburgh due to a hip pointer issue, but is ready to steer the Stormers attack against the Dragons at Rodney Parade, where he will look to make the most of his close connection with former Bulls teammate Warrick Gelant.
The Capetonians will hope that he can unlock the opposition defence with his mix of flair and pace, while he is also prepared to slot a match-winning penalty in the second half if required.
“I won’t say it’s (goal-kicking) a difficult responsibility. It’s part of the position I play – I can’t see it as a difficulty. I pride myself in working hard on all the skill-sets I need to have … If it is kicking, passing, running, I work on all of them to be at my very best,” Libbok said.
“I am an exciting, running flyhalf, but I’m also working very hard on my kicking game as well, as I pride myself on chasing to be the complete flyhalf – and not just be known as just a running flyhalf or kicking flyhalf. I work hard on all three departments to better my game.
“It’s crucial for us to win on Friday, but for now, it’s to get this week right and put the preparation in place for us to perform at our very best on Friday and get the result.”