30/03/2008 22:21

Stephen Nell

Cape Town - The Western Force's slump after a successful tour of New Zealand has made the Stormers approach their Super 14 rugby match against the Cheetahs with great caution.

Assistant coach Gary Gold said on Sunday it was important for the Stormers to build on their success in Australia and New Zealand, where they earned 16 log points.

Next week's clash against the Cheetahs will be the first of five consecutive home matches for the Stormers.

The team's management had not discussed the possibility of a place in the semi-finals, Gold said.

"Just look at the Force. They were outstanding in New Zealand and then played poorly against us. It won't serve any purpose if we perform badly at Newlands after doing so well on tour."

The team's next task is to win against the Cheetahs. "They are playing well. They should have won some of their matches," Gold said.

Any drop in intensity in the Stormers camp would be corrected immediately, he added.

"We have to keep our feet on the ground. We'll quickly notice if there is any drop in intensity. But I don't think it will happen."

Lot of confidence and good work ethics

The Stormers had planned to win two of their matches before going on tour. They failed to achieve that object but made up for it by winning in Australasia.

"We now have an inside lane; we can qualify for a semi-final," Gold said. "It's in our hands. I don't think the players will go off the boil. They have a lot of confidence and good work ethics."

Their impressive fitness levels have also kept the Stormers relatively injury free. They may even have another option at loosehead prop soon because Schalk Ferreira is expected to be available.

At this stage, JD Moller's fitness is of extreme importance

Gold also praised chief coach Rassie Erasmus for creating a positive environment for the squad. "One never gained the impression on tour that anyone was keen to go home.

"One of the keys to our success was that Rassie provided insight in the areas where the opposition were likely to attack us."

The Stormers still have to play the Cheetahs on April 12, the Hurricanes on April 18, the Highlanders on April 26, the Brumbies on May 3, the Waratahs on May 10 and the Lions on May 17 in the only away match before the playoff stage.