Stormers want more of the same
PLAY-OFF: FLECK’S MEN HAVE BEATEN CHIEFS THIS YEAR
However, home side have a poor record in play-off matches.
The Stormers’ poor record in Super Rugby play-off matches will come under renewed scrutiny when they host the Chiefs in the quarterfinals at Newlands this afternoon.
Stormers coach Robbie Fleck admitted this week that a single success in eight play-off matches is something they don’t really talk about, but are clearly fully aware of.
Their only success was a 25-6 win over the Waratahs in the 2010 semifinals at Newlands en-route to a losing final against the Bulls in Soweto.
The Chiefs also thrashed them 60-21 in the corresponding playoff game at the same venue last year, but Fleck was quick to point to a 34-26 win over the Chiefs earlier this year.
“We have beaten them here and we are looking at beating them again,” said Fleck this week after he recalled flank Rynhardt Elstadt and fullback SP Marais to his starting line-up.
The Stormers had mixed success this year, but still dominated the Africa1 Conference and because they played five Kiwi teams this year, Fleck believed they will be more prepared to what’s coming compared to last year.
Led by battle-hardened All Blacks in Sam Cane, lock Brodie Retallick and veteran flank Liam Messam the Stormers’ ability to dominate the gainline will be under the spotlight.
The Stormers themselves have in flank Siya Kolisi a captain who is enjoying a dream season and he will require support from Elstadt and lock Eben Etzebeth.
Fleck however believes it’s the soft moments on defence and attack which could be decisive.
“If it takes a miracle pass from wing Dillyn Leyds again then he must do it,” said Fleck.
“We can’t hold back. We’ve worked so hard to get to this place now that we will be highly disappointed if we didn’t pitch up.”
A surprise win for the Stormers will see them take on the winner of today’s early quarterfinal between the Crusaders and Highlanders.
Kick-off: 5pm.