Dobson reveals when Stormers fans can expect Pead
INTERVIEW: Stormers head coach John Dobson has indicated that new scrumhalf Haashim Pead will have to wait a little longer for his debut.
With the Stormers facing a demanding opening tour, Dobson believes the side needs more time to integrate their new No 9.
“I think for the Sharks (October 10) at home, we also want more time to train with him. We’ve only got one training day next week.
“We train on Monday, and then on Tuesday we’re travelling. Wednesday’s a day off, Thursday’s captain’s run. So, there’s not much we can do to get him integrated.
“Nine’s a big role. It takes a bit of work. So, I think only the week after [the tour].”
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Dobson, however, believes the Stormers have addressed an important area of their squad.
“Very chuffed with the way we’ve rebuilt. You know, there are other areas we need to have a look at, like the lock, which I’ve talked about. But scrumhalf is, I think, done now with that acquisition.”
The Stormers will face Connacht in a rematch of a painful defeat at Cape Town Stadium last season.
Dobson admits the loss still hurts, particularly given the circumstances surrounding the occasion after the tragic death of team manager Chippie Solomon.
“Connacht can be a tough team for us. Not even six months ago, that game at Cape Town Stadium. I think Ruan was quoted saying it was one of the darkest days of our careers.
“And losing the game was a really, really tough experience for us. So, they have had our number. And we feel like we want to try and put that right.”
Despite the disappointment, Dobson was quick to pay tribute to Connacht for the way they supported the Stormers around the occasion.
“They were the first guys to message about Chippie. They gave us a jersey.
“They held us on the occasion like you can’t believe. So, they’re a great rugby institution. But losing that game was really, really disappointing, given the occasion.”
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Lancaster: ‘We’ll have to front up physically’
Connacht head coach Stuart Lancaster expects a physical opening-round battle against the Stormers.
“It’s great to finally get the season going after a long but positive pre-season,” Lancaster said.
“We feel like we’ve prepared well and now we’re looking forward to putting our best foot forward in front of our home supporters.
“Mack’s inclusion is obviously a big boost for us, and it’ll be a proud day for Francois and Max too.
“We’re missing a good few through Irish selection and injury but it’s a strong 23, who we know will have to front up physically against what we’re expecting to be a strong Stormers side.”
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