Libbok tipped for more Bok honours
Connacht skipper Jack Carty earmarked Manie Libbok for more Springbok honours after his opposite number dazzled for the Stormers in a United Rugby Championship semifinal in Cape Town on Saturday.
Libbok was a thorn in Connacht’s side when the Stormers powered to a 43-25 win in front of 47,000 fans at the Cape Town Stadium.
The Stormers will meet Munster in the final at the same venue on May 27 after they upset Leinster in the other semifinal at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on Saturday.
Libbok was in hot form against the Irish side as the Stormers charged into their second consecutive final.
Apart from two tries, Libbok also kicked five conversions and a penalty.
“I think he’s a phenomenal player, and it would be wrong for him not to be pushing for that South African No 10 jersey,” Carty said.
“He’s an incredible player. You never know what he’s going to do.
“You think he’s going to pass, and then he’ll do a chip over the top.
“He kicks off both feet and is a brilliant goal-kicker.
“He’s a joy to watch in terms of his range of skills and how he leads his forward pack around.
“Unfortunately for us, he had a good game today.”
Libbok is intent on shining in the final after he failed to fire on all cylinders against Munster in a league match in April.
“That performance against Munster was tough, especially kicking at goal,” Libbok said.
“That kind of game builds your character.
“I take a lot of learnings out of games like that because they remind you there is still a lot to work to improve on.
“You go back and put the work in.
“I got my confidence back again for the Benetton game [the next weekend] and then the Bulls game [quarterfinal], and I just put my head down and keep working on my craft so I can be in the best possible position to perform on the weekend.
“I’m just happy I’ve got the opportunity to play.
“That’s what I always wanted. I wanted to play.
“I’m just grateful that coach John Dobson and the Stormers gave me that opportunity and backed me.
“That has paid off, and playing week in and week out has helped me build my confidence.
“I’m very happy with where I am at this stage of my career.
“I’m loving it here; Steven Kitshoff and the forwards lay the foundation for me to do my thing.
“Them doing their job makes my job easier. I’m just enjoying my rugby.”
Stormers coach John Dobson said he was emotional after his side reached their second URC final.
“It’s a little bit emotional, to be honest,” he said.
“Our big fear throughout the year was to prove we belonged and that last season wasn’t a fluke.
“I think if you had said we would go to the final again this season it would have been difficult to believe.
“It’s an incredible feeling for us. To have made two finals is so special. It’s emotional but in a nice way.”
“It’s a source of pride. When you look at us being the only South African team in the semifinals with three Irish teams, that is very special.”