Fired-up Chiefs a test for Stormers
FLECK: THEY RESTED PLAYERS AND LOST, THEY’RE HURTING
Rudolph Jacobs
The Stormers are bracing themselves for a Super Rugby backlash from the Chiefs at Newlands this afternoon after their surprise defeat at home against the Jaguares last weekend.
Stormers coach Robbie Fleck said the Chiefs were under-strength last week, but they have big-name All Blacks like ace lock Brodie Retallick back this week.
“We are going to face real quality opposition this weekend with a similar mindset,” said Fleck.
“They rested some players against the Jaguares and they lost so they will be hurting and will be fired up.”
One of the biggest threats in the Chiefs side will undoubtedly be flyhalf Damian McKenzie, while the Stormers would be hoping centre Damian de Allende continues with his recent great form.
The Stormers beat the Chiefs 34-26 in a pulsating game at Newlands last year, but lost the last two play-offs 60-21 and 17-11 to the Kiwi team.
However, the Capetonians have won nine of their 11 regular season games when hosting New Zealand opposition.
The Chiefs will hope to continue their good form in the fixture between the sides – the Kiwis have won five of the last seven meetings between the two teams.
“It is a massive game for us and we are looking forward to it,” said Fleck.
“We are heading in the right direction, if we can keep working on taking the soft moments out of our game it bodes well for us.”
The Stormers showed great intensity in their forward pack in beating the Bulls 29-17 last weekend to record their fifth straight win at home, but Fleck said they have quickly shifted their focus.
“It was back to square one on Monday and we have got quality opposition coming down and we need to win again,” he said.
“We can’t afford to slip up, so there is healthy pressure.”
Kick-off: 3.05pm.