Van Zyl set for spicy clash with Harlequins
IVAN van Zyl is bracing himself for another extra “spicy” confrontation with Harlequins in front of a large and noisy Tottenham crowd next Saturday.
And the South African insists London bragging rights will go to those who maintain cool and calm heads in the heat of intense local Premiership battle.
That’s why the scrumhalf feels says it’s vital Saracens balance fire with ice in terms of their attitude in a contest which has so much on the line for both sides.
A Sarries win – in front of what is expected to be a 60,000-plus crowd – would guarantee them a home play-off berth while it would realistically end Quins hopes of a top four place.
Van Zyl recalls: “It was definitely a bit spicy down at Quins when we beat them on the opening day. But I quite enjoy that! When you feel your backs are against the wall. It brings us tighter as a group. It’s special when you get those victories when the crowd is all against you.
“That was the first game of the season while next weekend has so much at stake because we are getting to the business end.
“Sarries-Quins rivalry is a proper one. It’s a game you feel you must win, and there’s always an added focus and determination to get one over them every time.
“You want that that fire in the belly and boys ready to run and hit hard but, ultimately, it is about having that certain balance. You also need cool heads to go with that fire. Discipline is vital, especially at this important time of year. Not just avoiding red and yellow cards but also not conceding too many penalties. You make it extremely difficult for yourselves if your discipline is not up to standard. It cost us against Sale. Losing players has a big effect and you need to be clinical in defence.”
Van Zyl adds: “It’s about making good decisions and being in the right areas to capitalise on errors and mistakes. In big games, it is about which team constantly makes the right decisions especially when it’s going to be a tight affair. That’s why it will be so good to have all those international boys back too.
“We want to secure that play-off spot before going into Europe. Having all the England guys back from the Six Nations will be brilliant and adds to the occasion. Hopefully, they can bring some of that performance and confidence back to the field for us.”