De Wet looks to make home advantage count

18/04/2024 14:55

DHL Stormers scrumhalf Paul de Wet is ready to take full advantage of a run of games at DHL Stadium, kicking off against Ospreys on Saturday.

The Stormers return to Vodacom URC action this week, with two successive home games on the menu. First up is a clash with the current top-ranked Welsh side Ospreys, before eight-time champions Leinster arrive in Cape Town next week.

With the Stormers hunting a third home URC quarterfinal and a top-four finish, De Wet is determined to help the team make home advantage count over the next two weeks.

"The upcoming home games against Ospreys and Leinster are crucial for us," he said.

"To secure maximum points from both matches, we need to focus on executing our game plan with precision. This means maintaining discipline, capitalising on scoring opportunities, and staying mentally sharp.

"Playing in front of our home crowd gives us an extra boost, and we're determined to make the most of it. We'll be aiming to deliver strong performances and be in the form we need to go into the playoffs."

STORMERS FLASHBACK: A Zas-tastic victory

We are back in business this week with @ospreys coming to DHL Stadium on Saturday for some @Vodacom#URC action.

Get your tickets now https://t.co/9cTOK7QcHr#STOvOSP#iamastormer#dhldeliverspic.twitter.com/sFF0lEDslZ

— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) April 15, 2024

The Stormers have enjoyed the last week off after back-to-back URC victories over Edinburgh and Ulster followed by an Champions Cup clash against two-time defending champions La Rochelle.

De Wet said that the break has reinvigorated the squad for the coming weeks.

"The week off has been crucial for recovery and preparation. Following the physical encounter against La Rochelle, the break couldn't have come at a better time," he explained.

"It's allowed us to recharge our batteries and focus on the upcoming challenges in the URC."

De Wet is taking plenty of confidence from the Stormers' performances this season. A massive effort in the Champions Cup playoffs saw the Capetonians score 21 points against La Rochelle, yet falling just short of progressing to the quarterfinals for a second successive season.

"We showcased our attacking ability against La Rochelle," De Wet said. "It's a testament to the hard work we've been putting in on the training ground, and it's encouraging to see our efforts paying off on the field.

"Despite our Champions Cup campaign ending in the Round of 16, we draw a lot of confidence from our performances. Beating the defending champions in the pool stage and pushing them close in the playoffs demonstrates the quality and potential of our squad.

"It's something we can build on moving forward."

Photo: @THESTORMERS/Twitter

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