Stormers future is bright

Not only have they finally turned the corner and 'converted' to a more expansive game, but the introduction of several youngsters to the team in the 41-10 win over the Southern Kings at the weekend is even more exciting.

Fleck said he is "happy" that they are making progress in terms of playing a more expansive game.

And giving young players a chance means they are also building for the future.

"The guys were pushing me to put some of those youngsters on earlier," he said of their encounter with the Kings.

He said he wanted to make sure the game was safe before introducing the next generation to the game.

"The likes of [loose forward] Jaco Coetzee and [scrumhalf] Justin Phillips, as well as [flyhalf] Damian Willemse at the end - it shows the youth that we have coming through and that we are prepared to back these youngsters," Fleck said.

"Damian Willemse had two touches in five minutes and he created magic," he said of the teenage progidy, adding: "I am certainly excited about what's coming forward in Stormers rugby and also South African rugby."

The Stormers coach admitted he was somewhat "frustrated" with parts of the team's performance against the Kings at the weekend.

"There were moments when we were really good,"aid.

"I was just frustrated that we didn't convert more [opportunities].

"Certainly the game was never in doubt."

Asked about the six tries to one victory and his team's new expansive style, Fleck said that is where they are going.

"We are going to put ourselves under pressure with a bit more high-risk.

"We want to keep the ball in hand and put teams under pressure."

He confirmed that two Springboks - Sevens legend Seabelo Senatla and Bok loose forward Siya Kolisi - will be introduced when the team resumes its season against the Sunwolves in Singapore on March 25.

The Stormers have a bye this week.

"Seabelo was rested as that was my agreement with him," he said of the BlitzBok star.

"However, he will be back for the rest of the campaign. Likewise Siya [Kolisi]."

He said that fortunately they didn't pick up any new injuries against the Kings.

"I am super excited about what lies ahead," Fleck said, adding: "We have made major strides in terms of our game.

"It was clear to see when we did keep the ball in hand - we scored six good team tries."

@rugby365com