Stormers players went the 'extra mile' for each other

REACTION: Steven Kitshoff has opened up on the brotherhood in the Stormers camp that played an integral role in their United Rugby Championship campaign.

Kitshoff became the first captain to lift the URC trophy after his team edged the Bulls 18-13 in the Final in Cape on Saturday.

The Stormers had to show a lot of character after they were dominated in the opening quarter of the match. They were also down 3-7 at the break before they staged their fightback in the second half.

"That never-say-die attitude is one of the special characteristics of this team," said Kitshoff.

"As soon as there is a bit of care and a bit of love with great friendships then guys are willing to go the extra mile for you.

"It also has a lot to do with Dobbo [head coach John Dobson] and his team socials.

"There is a true friendship among each other in the team and you can actually see it on the pitch.

"You can see it at the HPC [High Performance Centre] where the guys bond and chat and actually care for each other and that spills over into the game.

"When times get tough, the guys go the extra mile to ensure the team gets the result."

Kitshoff said the 31 000 fans at Cape Town Stadium also played their part in the Final.

"It was special. The faithful were definitely the extra man on the field today [Saturday] and it was properly loud and cheerful, which made it a great atmosphere."

Massive achievement

The Stormers captain, who is also a World Cup winner with the Springboks, said winning the URC title was right up there with his other achievements.

"It's up there and just the journey we have been on.

"During how home leg we just thinking about getting a top-eight spot and qualify for European Cup.

"We just pushed those goals further and further and we got a home semi and then eventually a home Final.

"This has been an incredible journey and it is top two [in terms of achievements]."

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