The Stormers are gearing up for their URC quarterfinal clash against Glasgow Warriors, confident that they have the depth and talent in their squad to cover for the absence of star back Damian Willemse. Willemse was handed a three-week suspension following a red card incident in their final pool game against Cardiff, ruling him out for most of the URC playoffs. Despite this setback, assistant coach Rito Hlungwani remains optimistic about the team’s chances.
The Stormers will face defending champions Glasgow Warriors at Scotstoun Stadium, a venue where they narrowly lost in last year’s quarterfinal. While Willemse’s absence is a blow, the return of Springbok flyhalf Manie Libbok from injury provides a boost to the backline options. Hlungwani expressed gratitude for Libbok’s timely return, highlighting the team’s depth and versatility in covering for Willemse’s absence.
“We are quite fortunate that a guy like Manie’s timing has been good in coming back from injury, and it’s great to have him back,” said Hlungwani. He emphasized the opportunity for other players to step up in Willemse’s absence, with Warrick Gelant and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu capable of filling in at fullback and inside centre, respectively. Dan du Plessis also provides cover at 12, showcasing the team’s depth in the backline.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who has been in impressive form at flyhalf, is likely to shift to inside centre against Glasgow, with Libbok taking on the playmaking duties at 10. The backline could feature Leolin Zas and Suleiman Hartzenberg on the wings, and Wandisile Simelane at outside centre, creating a formidable attacking lineup even without Willemse.
As the Stormers prepare to take on Glasgow Warriors in the URC quarterfinal, they are confident in their ability to overcome Willemse’s absence and put up a strong performance. The team’s depth and versatility in the backline provide reassurance that they have the players to cover for their star back, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive knockout clash.
