WP close in on Watson

Published Aug 30, 2004

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Luke Watson could commit his future to the Stormers and Western Province this week.

The Sharks loose forward and South Africa under-21 captain has until Friday to decide whether he will be moving to Cape Town next year. Province have tabled an offer and are now awaiting a formal response.

"If he wants to come we will welcome him with open arms.

Luke is 21 and will be a good investment for the future. He's a very good young player and can leave a lasting impression here," said WP Rugby (Pty) Ltd managing director Rob Wagner.

Should WP clinch the deal, the Stormers can field an awesome loose trio of Watson, Schalk Burger and Joe van Niekerk in next year's Super 12.

However, they are not prepared to increase their offer.

Watson is not yet a Springbok and at this stage considered a highly promising young player.

Province also have Hendrik Gerber and Adri Badenhorst among their senior loose-forward resources, while there are talented youngsters coming through the ranks.

But Watson is the perfect replacement for Corné Krige. He played at No 8 for the Sharks in their 41-27 defeat to the Blue Bulls at the weekend, but his best position is undoubtedly on the flank, where he is a master at winning turnover possession.

The leadership abilities that come with the gifted youngster are an added bonus. Like father Cheeky, Luke is not afraid to speak his mind.

People in authority may not always be comfortable with that, but the culture in WP rugby is definitely the best for players who enjoy empowerment and are independent thinkers.

There will also be no difficulty between Watson and Burger. While the two have been played off against one another due to Springbok coach Jake White's preference for Burger and his snubbing of Watson, the Sharks boy has steadfastly dismissed talk of personal issues.

Province and the Stormers' power of persuasion is also given weight by the brand of rugby that they play.

Despite the mediocre opposition in front of them at the weekend, the manner in which WP went about their business in taking the Eagles apart 78-31 was really impressive.

Wing Egon Seconds celebrated with five tries, though the standout feature of the game was the skill and interplay between the players.

"The Springboks slotted in well. You are always worried about players coming from a high to play at a lower level, but the fears were unfounded. The other players complemented them well. Our execution, handling of pressure and skills were all pleasing," said Du Plessis.

While not on the same scale as his hat trick against the All Blacks, Marius Joubert got another on Saturday, while scrumhalf and captain Neil de Kock was a constant threat.

Gaffie du Toit's composure was also excellent and he used the 80 minutes on the ground where he got his first taste of stardom to show that, in the right team environment, he is an extremely valuable player. Some of his touch kicks were extraordinary.

On the down side, WP allowed Griquas in for a few soft tries in the second half. It may not be a great concern under the circumstances, but does come down to mental discipline.

Werner Greeff is the only injury concern. The WP flyhalf hurt his chest and will have x-rays taken today.

"He fell badly and then took a knock on the same spot," said Du Plessis.

The WP medical team will also assess hooker Pieter Dixon, lock Ross Skeate, wing Breyton Paulse and scrumhalf Bolla Conradie ahead of this coming Saturday's match against the Pumas. None of the four were considered due to injury.

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