Super Rugby lopsided: Plumtree
PLUMTREE: ‘SOME SA FRANCHISES DON’T PLAY KIWI SIDES’
Coach explains how Canes negated Lions match-winners.
Hurricanes forward coach John Plumtree believes the current Super Rugby competition is lopsided and strongly favours certain teams. Plumtree, who was one of the masterminds who planned the fall of the Lions last week, said there are some definite disadvantages in the current format.
“The structure of the competition is not ideal, some SA sides are not playing Kiwi teams, giving them maybe easier access to finals time,” he said.
“So they’ll need to relook it. I think everyone should play Kiwi teams, so some teams are at a disadvantage.”
Plumtree revealed how they thoroughly analysed the Lions game and saw their success was based on quick ruck ball to free flyhalf Elton Jantjies and scrumhalf Faf de Klerk.
“When the Lions had possession it was important we got off the line quickly and put them under pressure,” said Plumtree.
“And if we put in quality tackles we could put some pressure on their fast ball. They have had some fast ball all year and it was key for us that they didn’t dominate that area.
“So it was key to put Elton and Faf under pressure and I think we did that and they played a lot behind the advantage line. It was a goal,” he said.
Plumtree admitted he’ll have to keep his emotions in check returning to Durban this week where he was sacked as Sharks coach in 2013.
“I have got to keep all those emotions in check, just do my best for the team this week to prepare them, for what’s coming which won’t be easy and the Sharks keep improving,” said Plumtree.
“It’s a good opportunity for me to see some friends and I always thought one day I’d come back to King’ s Park with the Canes so it feels good,” he said.