Cheetahs geared for breakdowns

2008-09-03 22:32

Pieter Jordaan

Bloemfontein - The Free State Cheetahs' loose forwards "are also among the best in the world".

That is why Cheetahs coach Naka Drotské does not believe that breakdown points and play in the loose are a particular cause for concern ahead of Saturday's Currie Cup match against Western Province at 15:00 at Vodacom Park in Bloemfontein.

"I'm not worried about the loose forwards. They (WP) have the big names: Schalk Burger and Luke Watson. But I think everyone knows Heinrich Brüssow, Hendro Scholtz, Duane Vermeulen and Juan Smith. In my opinion those four are also four of the best loose forwards in the world.

"So it isn't the loose forwards that I'm really concerned about. While the WP guys are good, I believe we can be their equals there," Drotské said on Wednesday.

Some experts believe Brüssow to be the best ball chaser in South Africa, but he returns this week after an ankle injury, and therefore only as a substitute.

However, as a loose trio Vermeulen, Scholtz and Kabamba Floors asserted themselves in the earlier victory over the Lions in Johannesburg, something that played a critical part in the Cheetahs' 38-28 win.

"I think it's something we managed very well against the Lions," Drotské said, and added that good competition at the breakdowns was now definitely more important than before.

"I really believe we have proved we can score tries. But if we want to win the game our play at the points of breakdown and our defence have to be at the same level as it was against the Lions.

"The breakdowns are the most important thing in rugby today, without quick possession you can do nothing."

Drotské said that Floors, who lost his place in the starting line-up when Smith returned, will serve as a utility substitute for the whole loose trio, as well as for left and right wing.

It has not yet been decided in which position he will play if he should take the field from the bench.

- Volksblad