Stormers aim to extend winning streak in Harlequins clash

The DHL Stormers are preparing to continue their winning streak on Sunday as they face the Harlequins in the European Rugby Champions Cup at The Stoop at Twickenham, London.

Head Coach John Dobson acknowledges the challenges ahead, including injuries in the backline and the team’s hectic schedule, with just six days between the London trip and the next United Rugby Championship (URC) fixture in Cape Town. 

He highlights the squad’s growing depth in the forwards, giving the Stormers flexibility to manage rotations and maintain competitiveness. 

"We've built more depth, especially in the forwards, than I thought, which probably gives us a little bit more optionality in terms of being competitive - what we can do in London.

"Last year, we went there, we lost 53-16 to Harlequins with a very much sort of a second-string team. This year, our packers have got so much more depth."

Dobson is also mindful of the tricky European conditions and refereeing standards. 

He reflected on changes in rugby culture, lamenting what he sees as declining refereeing quality and increased player dissent. 

"Part of the culture of rugby is to drop 10 metres and wear it down. It’s poor refereeing decisions and a culture that is creeping into rugby that we have to stamp out."

To listen to Dobson in conversation with CapeTalk’s John Maytham, use the audio player below: