Maties to bring excitement again
Maties were handed a lesson in mental toughness during the 2016 Final where they lost 6-7 to Pukke, thanks to a converted try after regulation time had elapsed. And it is that lesson that coach Hawies Fourie has instilled in his 2017 squad.
"Pukke showed us what mental attitude is needed in a Final and that is something we took out of that defeat. It was a big disappointment but we have put it behind us and we are using it as motivation for this season to improve on everything we do.
"I believe that if you discuss this from inside the squad, it holds more value than bringing in someone from the outside. So we have done it from within, all the players had their input and we had a lot of discussion about it," Fourie told rugby365.com.
There is an air of expectation that surrounds Maties, as their faithful supporters – as well as numerous neutrals, are hoping for another season which saw them dominate the round-robin phase of the competition and ultimately afforded them the opportunity to rest key players in the final round-robin match.
However, they will need to do that without the services of a number senior players who have either completed their studies or signed professional contracts at other Unions.
"John-Roy Jenkinson has joined the Bulls, Wilhelm van der Sluys has completed his studies and moved overseas. Marko Janse van Rensburg took up a contract with the Pumas, Robey Labuschagne and Paul Streicher have completed their studies.
"However, we have a few very exciting youngsters from our Young Guns squad that have been pulled up. We never recruited players from outside, it's difficult to get someone who is post-grad from another varsity. So we have looked at players inside our own structures and are satisfied with the players we have.
"So, we are taking nothing for granted but we want to win every game and put ourselves in a position where we can afford to rest players if needed," he added.
Fourie believes that the introduction of the new red card law might just be something that can be implemented into the professional and international game.
"I think it's a good thing. During my coaching career, I have been involved in situations where red cards were given but the player had the card overturned a few days later.
"I like the fact that a red card only ends up being a 20-minute sanction, because if it's a similar situation where it may be a refereeing error, then the team is not punished too badly. If it proves itself in the competition, then I think it's something that could be implemented at international level," he stated.
While each team will be strong and contribute to an exciting competition, Fourie is adamant that the returning Wits side will be a contender.
"We know that Tuks are a strong side and Pukke will always be a force but I expect Wits to do very well. They have a huge pack of forwards and a few exciting backs. I rate them very highly and in my opinion, will be a top four contender," he said.
By Tauriq Ebrahim
@Tauriq365
@rugby365com
