One of the defining confrontations between the Lions and the Stormers on Saturday might be between the “lightweight” forwards as they storm from one running battle to the next throughout Emirates Airline Park.
Both teams’ loose players are enthusiastic, highly mobile, and physically gifted. In their United Rugby Championship (URC) match, the hosts have relied on Emmanuel Tshituka, Sibusiso Sangweni, Ruan Venter, and Francke Horn to carry them forward. Former Springbok Willem Alberts, who is now favored at lock, can also play as an auxiliary loose-forward.
The Stormers are currently dominant in this category. They could count on the indomitable Evan Roos and the explosive Hacjivah Dayimani if both were available for selection. Nama Xaba, Willie Engelbrecht, Ernst van Rhyn, and Junior Pokomela should all be considered.
You may argue, with a chef’s kiss, that the collision between the loose-trios will result in a meatball. Horn, the Lions’ No. 8 and arguably one of South Africa’s most in-form players in the tournament, concurs.
The previous week, Horn stated, “Our slackers are aware of what’s to come.”
We will continue doing what we have been doing for the previous four or five weeks, as it has been successful. The battle between the loose-forwards will be strong.
It is not about who you are as a person, but what you can provide to the team as loose-forwards, so that we can stand out.
The 23-year-old has been on a run recently, bringing together strong offensive and defensive performances. He has scored five tries in the URC by breaking the gainline and outrunning defenders, but he has also sacrificed his body.
The former vice-captain of the Baby Boks has a chance of being selected by the Springboks for at least SA ‘A’ in the End of the Year tour next month.
“I am performing well because I am aware of my role in the team,” Horn said of his current form and chances of joining the expanded South African squad.
“The coaches and the system enable me to play in a particular fashion. Since it is hard for a player to alter his approach, I plan to attract attention by simply being myself.”