The Stormers face a crucial test against the unbeaten Leinster in round 10 of the Vodacom URC. Despite Leinster missing some key players, the Stormers head coach John Dobson recognizes the magnitude of the challenge and the importance of a win to propel them into the top four.
The Stormers are gearing up for a crucial clash against the unbeaten league leaders, Leinster , in round 10 of the Vodacom URC at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on Saturday. While Leinster is missing a core of Ireland internationals due to 2025 Six Nations preparation, they still possess a formidable squad with several capped players, including two-time Springbok world champion RG Snyman, and the guidance of senior coach Jacques Nienaber .
The Stormers, currently ranked 10th, are hoping to break into the top four with a victory in Dublin. To bolster their chances, head coach John Dobson has recalled key players Warrick Gelant, Ben-Jason Dixon, Manie Libbok, and veteran captain Deon Fourie. Dobson acknowledges the challenge posed by Leinster, recognizing them as one of the 'super-clubs' in rugby with a wealth of international experience. He emphasizes the importance of a strong performance for the Stormers to remain competitive in the URC, stating, 'If we want to be at the sharp end of the URC, which is our plan for the season, we need to put in a proper winning performance tomorrow.'Fourie, a seasoned campaigner in high-stakes matches, anticipates a grueling encounter, comparing it to a Test match. He highlights Leinster's meticulous preparations and emphasizes the need for clinical execution from the Stormers for the full 80 minutes. He warns, 'They are not going to hold back.' Despite their recent exit from the European Cup competition following a defeat to Racing 92, Dobson sees the URC as an opportunity for redemption. He states, 'They're a well-drilled side, and I know Jacques since I was with the U21s. His attention to detail is always there, and even before he arrived there, the Ireland players’ attention to detail was there. I told the guys in the week, it’s going to be like a Test match, so you have to be sharp and clinical for 80 minutes or you’ll get punished. They are not going to hold back.'The Stormers hold an unbeaten record against Leinster in their previous three meetings, including a draw in Dublin in 2023. However, Cullen's team will be determined to maintain their perfect record of nine wins in as many matches this season. Dobson acknowledges Leinster's strong desire to win at home, stating, 'While we've never played their full Irish side, they've never beaten us, and they're going to want to beat us this week.' The upcoming match promises to be a thrilling contest between two strong teams, with both sides vying for important points in the URC standings.
URC Leinster Stormers John Dobson Deon Fourie Jacques Nienaber Aviva Stadium Dublin Rugby
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