Naas waiting on Griquas to 'fire'
Fri, 30 Jul 2010 09:20
Star flyhalf Naas Olivier has praised Griquas head coach Dawie Theron for inspiring a winning culture in Kimberley and believes the underrated Union will get better and better as the season continues.
Captain Olivier and his teammates got their season off to a fine start three weeks ago with a win over the Sharks in Kimberley and, after a narrow defeat to the Cheetahs away from home, recorded their second success of 2010 against the Lions last Saturday.
Having come so close to a semifinal spot in 2009, Griquas are determined to build on the fine work they have done over the last couple of seasons.
Developing under Theron, the 'Peacock Blues' have established themselves as a real threat in the Premier Division of the Currie Cup.
Commenting on his teams start to the season, Olivier said he was pleased that he and his teammates had been able to record couple of wins - despite not having had too much time to work together as a squad.
Importantly, however, he believes there is plenty more to come from them.
"It's always tough with half the squad coming back from playing Super 14 with the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein and the other half playing Vodacom Cup in Kimberley," he explained.
"It's hard coming together again and trying to gel as quickly as possible.
"We still haven't fired on all cylinders so far this season but we've pulled off two big wins in three games. It's been a good start and we're hoping to build on that."
A well-known breeding ground for talent in South Africa, Griquas have to work hard to keep star names - like Olivier - in Kimberley. Changes though are a reality of life for the union and that is where the coach comes in.
"I think Dawie [Theron] plays a huge part in that (team building)," said the 28 year-old playmaker. "He keeps the guys together - let's them know what the Griquas culture is all about."
Olivier, a former WP and Stormers player, added: "Everyone knows exactly where we're heading, what we are aiming for, and it's important that we all stay on the same page.
"We've had a few very talented guys come in this season and they've fitted in very well to all the systems - we're looking good."
Griquas head to Potchefstroom on Friday night to take on the Leopards in a Round Four Absa Currie Cup clash.
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