Pumas eye another big scalp

The Pumas are looking to take down one more "big" team in their quest to obtain a playoff spot which will, ultimately, make for a successful season.

The Mbombela Stadium has become a fortress for the Nelspruit side as they are yet to be beaten at the venue in the campaign and coach Jimmy Stonehouse is hoping to keep it that way.

"We have to take down another big side, only then will we say we have had a great season. If we want to stay in the competition, we have to beat more [big] sides like we have done [against the Sharks and Cheetahs], and if we can add WP to that list, it will make it a great season.

"Having the advantage of playing at home against the top team should make it easier [for us] and Mbombela has a great vibe. The poeple, the singing, everything is great for the players and we believe we can win.

"Just like any other side, we love playing at home and have the supporters behind us. We really need this one now to make a step up," he said.

The Pumas are heading into the match on the back of a tough time on the road, losing two consecutive matches but Stonehouse is confident his side will bounce back at home.  

"Province are a great side. We need to maintain possession, take our own setpieces and stop their outside backs. We need to keep the ball away from their back three, if we don't, we going to have problems. We have made a few changes and will bounce back," he added.

In order to counter the threat of WP's back three, Stonehouse had been hard at work maintaining his side's structure if they are forced to employ the boot but stated it would be more contesting kicks than needlessly kicking away possession.

Stonehouse's men currently occupy fourth position on the log, one point behind third placed Sharks and tied on points with fifth placed Cheetahs.

Tauriq Ebrahim