VIDEO: 'He is going to be a very big loosehead in SA'

SPOTLIGHT: Neethling Fouche admits he has a ‘soft spot’ for fellow prop Vernon Matongo in the Stormers squad.

The 23-year-old Zimbabwean-born loosehead caught the eye with his scrumming performance against the Dragons in last Saturday’s 48-12 win in the United Rugby Championship.

It was the former Northwood schoolboy’s first start for the Capetonians and he won some big scrum penalties, which contributed to the dominance up front.

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“Vernon is showing everyone what I’ve always thought about him,” said Fouche, who is set to return to the Stormers’ matchday squad for Friday’s final-round clash against Cardiff after serving a suspension.

“I think he is going to be a very big loosehead in South African rugby.

“It’s nice to see the young props come through and also an old head like Ali Vermaak, who has been playing for 43 years now,” he joked.

Fouche added: “I’ve got a soft spot for Vernon Matongo.

“He started training with us this season, and he has been patient. He has been putting me under pressure [in training].

“I’m giving him some advice like we have been getting from Brokkie [Brok Harris].

“I really see a bright future for Vernon. He is strong and has a good head because he asks questions.

“He is never the first one to leave.

“He is asking questions constantly and he wants to get better.

“I really think he is something to get excited about.

“Sazi [Sandi] has played well when he has had a chance. We saw Zach [Porthen] getting his debut last week, and he’s got a bright future ahead of him.”

@rugby365com