Smith assesses perfectly scripted win over Stormers
REACTION: The Glasgow Warriors team executed their quarterfinal plan for Stormers to perfection revealed a very proud head coach Franco Smith.
The Scottish side recorded a 27-10 win over the back-to-back URC finalist the Stormers at a cold and rainy Scotstoun Stadium on Saturday.
The South African side struggled with the weather conditions. They failed to convert try-scoring opportunities and flyhalf Manie Libbok missed all his kicking attempts, leaving 10 points on the field.
In contrast, the weather conditions suited Franco Smith’s team.
They scored three tries, while George Horne was flawless from the tee with three conversions and two penalties.
“I’m excited about the fact we’ve gone through,” Smith told the Scotsman.
“The guys stuck to the script. The weather was tricky with the rain and we knew we couldn’t afford to turn the ball over much.
“We are still alive in the competition. We prepared well all week and stuck to the plan. We were playing against a very physical opponent and the boys fronted up. I’m proud of that.
“We have built the character of this team over the past two years. It was never something I doubted. We care a lot about this club and about each other as teammates. We really worked hard for the win.”
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Smith’s team is in for another physical battle as they take on last season’s URC champs Munster at Thomond Park, Limerick in the semifinal clash next Saturday.
Munster booked a semifinal spot with a 23-7 win over Ospyres on Friday.
“It was always going to be a tough game in the semifinals regardless of who we played,” Smith said.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s Munster, we knew it would be tough. I’m sure it’ll be a great semifinal.
“We had a very good game against them last season over there and they repaid it with a narrow win over here. I’m sure it’ll be a great semifinal.”
Source: The Scotsman
