‘Proud’ Jimmy backs Pumas to go all the way

Coach Jimmy Stonehouse believes the Pumas have what it takes to be crowned Currie Cup champions after their emphatic victory over the Cheetahs.

The hosts won 52-26 in Mbombela on Saturday to finish third on the log and book a semi-final meeting with the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Sunday (3:30pm). Griquas will take on the Lions in the first semi in Kimberley (1pm).

MORE: Currie Cup semi-final lineup confirmed

Stonehouse was delighted with the way his players responded after their loss against Griquas the previous week.

“The players really went out there and made the most of the opportunity. I’m very proud of the way the players played,” Stonehouse told Netwerk24.

“Our goal is to win the Currie Cup and we are confident that we can do it.”

The Pumas were also forced to cope without several players through injury and suspension, but Stonehouse was impressed by those who stepped into the breach.

“The players who played in their places played excellently,” he said.

“[Flank] André Goedhals was incredible, he used the opportunity he got. The same goes for [replacement hooker] Gustav du Rand. [Flyhalf] Clinton Swart was also incredibly good.”

Stonehouse expects competition for places to intensify ahead of the semi-finals.

“The players really performed well on the training field last week. I think in the coming week it is going to be even better,” he said.

“There were so many players who performed well in the training sessions and put their hands up to be selected.”

FULL STORY

Photo: Dirk Kotze/Gallo Images

The post ‘Proud’ Jimmy backs Pumas to go all the way appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.