Stormers wary of wounded Edinburgh

SPOTLIGHT: The Stormers are happy with their 36-5 victory over Zebre, but are wary of a ‘quality’ Edinburgh challenge that awaits them this weekend.

Stormers defence coach Norman Laker lauded his team’s defensive efforts against Zebre, who famously beat Munster by 42-33 last weekend to only concede one late try in the match against the Italian outfit.

“We defended well as a team, obviously there are still things we need to improve on as a group but after what happened in game one [against Ospreys], we’re quite happy with the guys’ performance,” said Laker

“Everyone thinks Zebre is one of the so-called weaker teams in the competition which is not true.

“They haven’t done well in past seasons but two seasons ago they lost 29-31 against Leinster at home.

“So [in] the first six to eight rounds Zebre is quite competitive so we’re quite happy with the way the guys defended and stood up against a physical team,” Laker added.

Article continues below…

In terms of their challenge against Edinburgh, Laker reflected on their past meetings and that Edinburgh’s three losses in a row are not a reflection of what they’re capable of as a team.

“We played them quite a few times. We played them in a quarterfinal at Cape Town Stadium, they’re a quality outfit,” Laker said.

“Even though they have three losses on the trot, in this competition there is no weak team.

“Zebre has beaten Munster last week, anyone can beat anyone on any given day so you need to be up every single weekend at your best to make sure you get the win.

“They [Edinburgh] might not have clicked at the moment, they can click on Saturday and it will be a completely different game” Laker added.

Laker also provided @rugby365com with an update on Seabelo Senatla’s possible return after the wing made a social media post of himself training with the team.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Seabelo Senatla (@seabelo_senatla)

“Hopefully soon, but that’s also above my pay grade. Dobbo [John Dobson] and co must make that decision.

“He’s training with the team back home and from what I’ve seen he’s training phenomenally well and it’s great to have him back on the pitch.

“He’s an amazing trainer and player, [with a] good heart and brings a good vibe to the team, so we’d love to have him back on the pitch.”