John Dobson is confident that the DHL Stormers are well-prepared to kick off their Vodacom URC campaign with a strong start on their upcoming tour. After facing struggles in the previous season, the team has made significant enhancements to their squad to address their weaknesses and better compete in the tournament.
During a recent Vodacom URC Media Round Table, Dobson shared insights into the Stormers’ preparations for the upcoming season. The team, which has previously hosted the grand final in two editions of the tournament, faced challenges last season and finished in fifth place, falling short in the quarter-finals against eventual champions Glasgow Warriors.
Key additions to the Stormers’ squad, including the return of Steven Kitshoff and JD Schickerling, have brought valuable experience and muscle to the team’s pack. Additionally, Champions Cup-winning loose forward Dave Ewers has joined the squad on a short-term contract, further strengthening their lineup.
Dobson highlighted the importance of addressing specific areas of improvement, particularly in mauling, lineout, and contesting, after observing Glasgow’s effectiveness in these aspects during the previous season. The team has focused on enhancing their personnel and sharpening their skills in these areas during the pre-season to ensure a more competitive performance in the upcoming matches.
The Stormers are set to embark on a three-week tour starting on 28 September, with their first match against Ospreys in Swansea. Following the postponement of their round-one fixture against the Vodacom Bulls in Cape Town, the team is eager to secure better results on the road this season after facing challenges during their previous tour.
Reflecting on the struggles faced during the previous season’s tour, Dobson emphasized the impact it had on the team’s overall performance. A winless four-game tour early in the season placed immense pressure on the players, leading to a difficult season where they struggled to bounce back and secure victories.
Dobson acknowledged the need for strategic rotation of players to maintain squad depth and prevent overreliance on certain key individuals. By utilizing a larger pool of players, the team can ensure that all members are adequately prepared and capable of contributing effectively during matches.
The Stormers’ focus on achieving a successful start to the season is driven by the desire to avoid the challenges faced in the previous year. Dobson emphasized the importance of securing early wins to build momentum and confidence, setting a strong foundation for the team’s performance throughout the tournament.
With a renewed sense of determination and a bolstered squad, the DHL Stormers are poised to make a statement in the upcoming Vodacom URC season. By addressing previous weaknesses, enhancing their roster, and emphasizing the importance of a strong start on tour, the team is ready to showcase their capabilities and compete at the highest level.