The Stormers’ director of rugby has confirmed that Evan Roos, the Springboks’ dynamic number eight, is set to return from injury in their upcoming game against Sale Sharks in January. Roos played a pivotal role in the Stormers’ victorious campaign during the inaugural United Rugby Championship (URC) season, which eventually earned him a spot in the Springboks squad.
The Stormers have struggled to find form in the absence of Roos’ powerful ball-carrying abilities, managing only two wins in their first six league games. Their Champions Cup campaign has also been underwhelming so far.
Recent Progress
Despite the slow start, the team has shown signs of resurgence with the return of experienced Springboks players like Deon Fourie. The Stormers have secured back-to-back bonus-point victories, defeating the Lions and the Sharks. The latest win, a 24-20 triumph over the Sharks, took place at a packed Cape Town Stadium.
Reflecting on the game, the Stormers’ coach acknowledged the Sharks’ resilience and ability to disrupt their play. He noted that while his team struggled with slow ball phases, their second-half performance showed improvement in breaking down the opposition. The coach emphasized that securing maximum points from their last two games was essential for staying competitive in the URC season.
Home Advantage and Future Goals
The Stormers are looking to replicate their home dominance from their title-winning season. The coach expressed optimism about their upcoming fixtures, particularly against teams visiting Cape Town, stating that many of their opponents are beatable at home. He hinted at the possibility of another strong winning streak if the team maintains their momentum.
Adjusting Playstyle
The Stormers’ success in the past was often attributed to their fluid and creative attacking play. However, this season, the team has occasionally forced plays, leading to errors. The captain, Fourie, pointed out that while errors can be corrected, the team’s fighting spirit remains invaluable. He emphasized the importance of balancing creativity with structure, ensuring that their “magic” on the field is well-earned.
Upcoming Challenges
The next challenge for the Stormers is a crucial game against Sale Sharks. A loss could eliminate their European ambitions, turning their subsequent match against Racing 92 into a formality. The coach revealed that several key players, including Roos, Leolin Zas, and Sti Sithole, are expected to be available for the Sale clash. He stressed the importance of giving their best effort in the match, describing it as a pivotal moment for their season.