NSW Waratahs hoping to limit penalties against Stormers with new defensive approach
THE Waratahs will reign in their super fast defensive line speed against the Stormers after being heavily penalised in their loss to the Sharks.
THE Waratahs will reign in their super fast defensive line speed this weekend against the Stormers after being heavily penalised in their loss to the Sharks.
NSW forwards Michael Hooper and Kane Douglas identified off-side penalties as a key issue in this weekend’s contest in Cape Town.
“Being in South Africa, guys can kick penalties from 50 or 60 metres out so we’ll be careful,” Hooper said.
“It wasn't our plan to concede so many penalties against the Sharks, we need to sharpen up in that area.
“It’s about finding that balance, finding quality line speed and being on that edge.”
Douglas added: “There were a few off-side penalties that are easily fixed, all the boys just need to step back a bit.
“But it is a good sign that shows how eager we were to get off the line.”
Both Hooper and Douglas said NSW remained confident of winning in the Republic despite last week’s 32-10 defeat, and the fact no visiting team has won in South Africa so far this season.
“All the boys have the belief that we can definitely still do it, we’ve got to keep our heads up,” Douglas said.
Hooper added: “It’s difficult to win here but we want to prove that we can beat these teams away from home.”