Stormers expect trench warfare

The Stormers are expecting to engage in some trench warfare against the Southern Kings at a wet Newlands on Saturday.

With rain predicted for Cape Town this weekend, and a hard-working Kings forward pack standing in their way, Stormers coach Allister Coetzee is not anticipating a very expansive game in the first-ever clash between the sides.

Coetzee explained that the expected conditions should provide as much of a test for his team as the opposition.

"Rain is a leveller and it will come down to a quality set-piece and obviously a good kicking game," the Stormers mentor said.

"It is going to be physical, it is really going to be in the trenches stuff, and we need to play a smart

kicking game and make sure we win that battle, but it starts with the set-piece," he added.

Although the Kings will be without injured lock Steven Sykes, Coetzee has seen enough of the Kings this season to expect a tough battle no matter what.

"Sykes has been a pillar of strength for them, but I think whoever they bring in will also be a very capable and efficient lock.

"I think the big thing is the way they play with attitude and also a big desire. No matter who is out and who is in they remain a dangerous side," he said.

Although the Kings have suffered a few heavy defeats, Coetzee knows that his side cannot afford to switch off in the last game before the June break as the last thing the embattled Cape side need is an embarrassing home defeat to the Super Rugby newcomers.

"They have had a few hiccups, but they have still continuously played well and performed well.

"We are under no illusions that this is going to be a helluva tough game, it is going to be in the trenches stuff and we have got to pitch up this weekend.

"It is a game before the break, unfortunately not for the Springboks, but we expect all 22 players to pitch up," he said.

By Michael de Vries