Province to keep it tidy
WP coach Allister Coetzee has placed massive importance on being tidy and accurate in executing their plan against Griquas.
WP are hurting from their 35-33 loss to the Lions at Ellis Park and are excited to be back at Newlands as they look to bounce back to winning ways.
"It's quite a tough game for us and we under no illusions about it, that's the thinking behind our planning. We're excited to be back at Newlands," he said
Although much emphasis was placed on the kicking game of the sides, Coetzee was quick to point out that enforcing that style of play is different at Newlands as opposed to the Highveld.
"We need to understand that kicking at Newlands is different to the Highveld, in terms of distance. They [Griquas] have a kicking game , like every other side does, but our back three are ready to punish them if they kick poorly against us.
"Like any other team, they have good individuals but they also have a physical pack who runs at you. They have quality players and that's how we view them. We need to make sure we control the pace of the game and execute our set-pieces. We know what they will bring but our focus is on our execution," he added.
Griquas are coming off an impressive 31-27 home win against the high-flying Pumas and Coetzee is aware the Kimberly side can be a 'banana-peel' to any team in the competition.
"They're a side that loves running the ball and disrupting defences. They feed off turnover ball, so we need to be very accurate and good at our set-pieces. We need to execute our plan very well by being tidy and accurate.
"We never disrespect any side. They [Griquas] can beat any side on the day, irrespective of log position, and that's how we have planned for this match. The competition is so close that if you are not well coached, not prepared and your attitude isn't right, you will be in for a long day. Despite the weather, we are well prepared," he stated.
Province captain Juan De Jongh is positive he can lead his side back to winning ways after their poor showing at Ellis Park.
"It's important to come back this week. We lacked concentration and attitude for 60 minutes which heavily cost us. Hopefully, we can learn from that defeat as we progress as a young team," the captain stated.
Tauriq Ebrahim