Consistency key for Kobus

The Crusaders will have all their returning All Black stars at their disposal and winning in their backyard is a mighty prospect for the Stormers, who have blown hot and cold thus far this season.

Van der Merwe’s team seemingly has the habit of winning the one week and then losing the next on tour. That is why he reckons consistency is the missing link the Stormers are looking for in order for them to be serious semi-final contenders.

“Yes, it is a worry that we are not consistent. As thing stand now we have collected ten points on tour – which is the most of any South African team I believe,” he commented.

“But that is not where we want to stop. There still is a game left this weekend and the points are available.”

Media reports slated the Waratahs for a poor performance in their defeat to the Stormers the past Saturday, but Van der Merwe believes it was more a case of his team playing well rather than the opposition playing poorly.

“I thought we played well. We maintained our structures, tackled strongly and took our chances when they presented themselves,” he said, adding that he was happy with the tight phases.

One thing that bothers him though is the finishing. “We did well in the scrums and lineouts we competed well. Our defence was outstanding.

“But we should be more clinical and make sure we are more competitive at the breakdown. We also need to make sure about our passing.”

Van der Merwe said a decision on the team would be made on Tuesday. Wing Corné Uys suffered a chest injury on Saturday and that could give Dylan des Fountain the opportunity to run out at left wing.

Van der Merwe also said he was considering resting one or two key players.