Welsh coach gives advice to the EP Kings

WALES coach Warren Gatland has provided some timely words of encouragement for the EP Kings as they prepare for their re-entry in the Currie Cup Premier Division in August.

Gatland, who has also coached the British and Irish Lions, was speaking after his team beat the Kings 34-12 in front of 15000 fans at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

“I thought the handling and skill from the Kings was excellent,” said Gatland, whose team face the Springboks in Durban today.

In a throwback to an older age of the game, Gatland said his players had gone to the Kings’ changing room after the game to have a few beers and socialise and swap jerseys.

“It was the Kings’ first hit out and they were missing some key players, so they will also be stronger in the future. I was absolutely delighted with the outcome because it was a tough game.

“It was good to see that the Kings came out and played rugby and they played like a typical South African team. They never gave up and really went out put us under pressure which was good for us. Gatland said.

“It was the Kings’ first game in a while and it does not matter how much conditioning you do, it is rugby fitness that counts.”

“Having spoken to Carlos Spencer, it is not about the short term but building ahead for the next 18 months and the Kings’ re-entry into Super Rugby. Take your time with the process and do not be too impatient,” Gatland warned.