Defence expert could be back to bolster Kings

HOT SHOT rugby defence coach expert Omar Mouneimne could be heading back to Port Elizabeth to shore up the leaky EP Kings defence.

Rugby insiders say the former Southern Kings defence coach is set to return to South Africa after a spell with top Scottish club Edinburgh.

Last season the Kings leaked a massive 53 tries and it was an area of major concern.

EP Rugby chief executive Charl Crous has confirmed that defence coach, Michael Horak, has left the employ of the EP Kings.

"Michael Horak was released from his contract, and has taken up the position as defensive coach at the Sharks."

"We wish him everything of the best," he said. Horak had originally signed with the Kings on a five year contract.

When the Southern Kings played Super Rugby last year, defence coach Mouneimne and head coach Alan Solomons ensured that the Port Elizabeth team had a rock solid defence.

When EP president Cheeky Watson reviewed the season he said defence was a matter that needed urgent attention.

Mouneimne began his work as a professional defence coach in 2006, as a collision and breakdown specialist for the South Africa sevens team.

He went on to coach South Africa under-20, before joining Western Province and the Stormers sides in 2008, building their reputation as one of most feared defensive units in the Currie Cup and Super Rugby.

He was then hired by Nick Mallett during his time as head coach of Italy.

Mouneimne was part of the Italian coaching staff that guided the Azzuri to a 22-21 victory over France in the 2011 RBS Six Nations Championship and was part of their coaching staff for Rugby World Cup in 2011.

Watson promised that he would bolster the team with some big signings ahead of the new season and yesterday the Kings announced that gifted young Blue Bulls flyhalf Tony Jantjies would be moving to the Bay.

At the end of last season Watson said: "Definitely, there are key positions that one needs to have a look at.

"We have our eyes on four or five players at the end of the Currie Cup when they come out of contract. These are the players we will bring in."

The Kings have said they will use the Vodacom Cup to prepare for the Currie Cup by picking their best players. - George Byron