AUDIO: Permutations not a priority for Stormers

LISTEN as Stormers defence coach Norman Laker speaks about his side’s mentality ahead of their final United Rugby Championship league match against Cardiff.

The Stormers ensured themselves a place in the quarterfinal, with the upcoming weekend’s results being the decider whether or not the Capetonians travel overseas or catch a quick domestic flight.

Cardiff, however, will be fighting for their lives after slipping down outside the play-off picture following their 21-45 defeat against the Bulls.

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The Stormers have a short turnaround following their second half dismantling of the Dragons when they face Cardiff at the Cape Town Stadium on Friday.

Laker said that his side won’t take Cardiff lightly and that they’ll focus solely on the match and not on any permutations heading into the play-offs.

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“Every game at this stage of the competition is important. We’re not looking at permutations. We want to go out and give our best,” Laker said

“If we can take four or five points it will help. Cardiff is a strong team. They’ve done quite well and we haven’t beaten them in a while. We’ve played them at their home ground the last two or three times.

“We can’t take anything [away] from Cardiff. They’re a quality outfit and are well-coached with some good international players.

“It’s going to be a dogfight on Friday evening and we will use the week to prepare as best as possible heading into the match and not worry too much about permutations.”

Stormers utility back Suleiman Hartzenberg who will play his 50th match against Cardiff echoed his defence coach’s sentiments and highlighted that Cardiff will be dangerous, especially on attack.

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“Cardiff is 100 percent an attacking threat. We should not get comfortable because there’s still a lot to play for.

“Whether they’re playing to be in the play-offs or we’re playing to either travel abroad or hopefully play in South Africa.

“We won’t get complacent and continue to give our best. Our prep stays the same this week as it would with any other opposition.

We’re preparing as if we’re playing a world-class team. It’s going to be a competitive game, it’s not going to be one where we feel they’re not going to pitch and play for it.”