'It's a bit harsh': Bok star rallies behind young hooker after Stormers' line-out woes
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Deon Fourie has come to the defence of young hooker Vernon Paulo after the Stormers’ 13-17 defeat to Edinburgh in Round Two of the United Rugby Championship.
The Stormers were unable to build on their opening-round victory over Connacht as their line-out struggles proved costly against Edinburgh.
The Cape side lost 11 line-outs during the match, including a crucial set-piece in stoppage time as they searched for a late opportunity to turn the game around.
Their task was made extra difficult when Springbok hooker Andre-Hugo Venter was forced off with a concussion in the 22nd minute, leaving Paulo to shoulder the responsibility in challenging, windy conditions.
However, Fourie believes it would be unfair to place the blame solely on the young hooker.
“I think it’s a bit harsh on the public out there and all the media outlets just to point fingers at Vernon,” Fourie told reporters.
Fourie, who started at hooker for South Africa against the All Blacks at Cape Town Stadium on August 29, stressed that a successful line-out requires a collective effort from the entire team.
“I think it’s a collective issue, so the conditions weren’t the best as well.
“I think just go and look at the collective thing of everyone’s job in a line-out. It’s not just Vernon or the hooker that throws in; it’s lifting, it’s making the right calls as well. Everything plays a part.”
The Stormers will now review their set-piece performance as they look to address the issues before their next URC encounter.
“We’ll do a review on that and then see where we can do better.
“I think we’ll definitely support him. I’ve been there throughout my career, stuff that doesn’t go your way in a game and you feel a bit down, but that’s absolutely not the case. It’s a collective thing.”
The Stormers will host the Sharks this Saturday at DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
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