Coetzee’s dream comes to fruition
LIONS STAR GETS BOK CHANCE AT ELLIS PARK Du Preez delighted to get first start in the green and gold.
Fullback Andries Coetzee had to wait two Test matches before he could fulfill one of his big dreams – playing a Springbok Test today in front of his home fans at Ellis Park.
Surrounded by more than a handful of his Lions team-mates, Coetzee made his debut at Loftus Versfeld and continued his good form against the French last weekend in Durban.
“It’s going to be a big one, obviously one of my dreams to play for the Boks at Ellis Park,” said the No 15 nicknamed “Boeboes” from childhood.
“Especially after we heard more than 50 000 people could attend the game.”
Coetzee said he prefers to keep it simple and stick to his normal routine the day before a big game.
“I’ll go and watch a movie, preferably a comedy, just to get away as the preparation has been done.
“It’s just to get your mind off, we do a lot of prep during the week, attend a lot of meetings and training,” he said.
Coetzee believes they will try to lift the tempo being on the Highveld, but warned the French would play with a lot of pride.
“A whitewash will be the cherry on the cake, but the French will be fired up to avoid just that,” he said.
“I never feel the 15 jersey belongs to me. Every game I have to play to earn that jersey and the badge on your chest. Every Test is a privilege and opportunity.
“We believe if you are not ready by the Friday, you won’t be ready on the Saturday.”
Flanker Jean-Luc du Preez expressed the wish that one day he might play a Test with his twin brother Daniel, the Sharks No 8, and older brother Rob, the Stormers No 10.
“Hopefully all of us can play together (for the Bok side) one day,” said Du Preez, who made a massive physical statement when he replaced the concussed Oupa Mohoje in Durban last week.
“My dad (Sharks coach Robert) doesn’t really say much. I know he is really proud of me, but I’m sure he’ll give me some advice later,” he said.
Du Preez said he was very happy to get his first start and really grateful to get the opportunity and was looking forward to the game.
“I won’t say I’m the only physical guy among the loose forwards, Siya Kolisi is also there and we all bring our own assets to the game, but I think we have a good balance.
“When I went on the field (last weekend) you could see all the high-fives from the players. That acceptance from the players helps quite a lot and makes your job a lot easier.”