Stormers speedster to miss SA derbies
SPOTLIGHT: The Stormers will have to tweak their back three for upcoming derbies against the Bulls and the Sharks in the United Rugby Championship.
After Saturday’s 21-20 victory against Stade Rochelais in the Champions Cup, Stormers head coach John Dobson revealed that his English wing Ben Loader will be on the sidelines for some time.
Loader has recently impressed with his performances and scored a crucial second-half try against the French giants.
“He was great at Welford Road [against Leicester Tigers] and he was great against Stade Rochelais,” said Dobson.
“I think he suits our game model.
“I think we just haven’t hit our flow yet and when we do, Ben will profit from that.
“Unfortunately, it looks like he has done his shoulder, which probably comes at the wrong time.
“I don’t know how serious it is but I doubt he will play in the next few weeks.
“It’s a pity. He has been great – physical, fast and he has got time and that is always a sign of a great player.”
North-South derby
Saturday’s match against Stade Rochelais was a bruising encounter and the victory will give the Stormers a bit of momentum heading into their URC tie with the Bulls.
It will be a Bulls team that has evolved under Jake White and it is something Stormers captain Deon Fourie has observed.
“If you look at the Bulls these days it’s not the Bulls of Bakkies [Botha] and Danie Rossouw,” said Fourie.
“They are playing good rugby now. They are spreading the ball, especially with Willie [le Roux] there.
“I know him now and he will organise some good attack.”
@rugby365com
#ICYMI: Stormers head coach John Dobson admitted the famous Champions Cup win over Stade Rochelais is a step in the right direction. #ChampionsCup #Stormers #StadeRochelais #STOvSR https://t.co/U7HxRyUWyl
— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) December 18, 2023
