CAPE TOWN - Western Province assistant coach Dawie Snyman says working on converting their opportunities is going to be a big focus from now on.
Province suffered a 30-17 defeat to the Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein at the weekend, and although they dominated possession in the first half, it was the hosts who proved to be more clinical as they made the most of the possession they had.
And Snyman said that although they were satisfied with a number of areas, they are well aware of the fact that there are also a few areas that they need to step up in, too.
“It wasn’t the result we wanted and there were a few areas we felt went really well, but we’re working on the areas that we felt weren’t good enough,” Snyman said.
“We want to create opportunities and finish those opportunities, and there were times at the weekend where we were maybe one pass away from scoring.
“That’s definitely what we want to work on - converting our opportunities.”
One of those areas that needs improving is their defence. John Dobson’s men let in a few soft tries on Sunday, but it was the Cheetahs’ lightning defence that put them under pressure the most.
The team Province fielded on Sunday was a combination of SuperSport Rugby Challenge and Super Rugby players, and due to injury and workload management, WP were without a number of stalwarts.
But Snyman was confident that the more they play together, those pieces that appeared misplaced on the weekend would start coming together.
“What we need is playing time together, so as a first outing - not having a lot of time to prepare - definitely had an influence on our rhythm. But we’ll have to fix that quickly and make sure we get it right,” he said.
However, the nephew of legendary Springbok Dawie Snyman didn’t want to give too much away regarding the make up of the team that will face the Pumas at Newlands on Saturday (3pm kickoff).
“We will select the best available team for this weekend,” Snyman said.
Snyman also revealed that they want to continue on the attacking foundation the Stormers laid this season, and added that they were by no means underestimating their opponents.
“The success that the Super Rugby team had in terms of their attack is something we want to work towards. We’re definitely going to go with the same style and the same approach, and hopefully we can continue on what they started,” Snyman said.
“I wouldn’t say the Pumas are a small union in terms of what they bring ... they’re physical, well- coached and they’ve had time to prepare. So it’s going to be a tough game.”