‘Full 80-minute effort vital for Kings’
If the Isuzu Southern Kings can keep up the intensity for the full 80 minutes they can pull off a shock win over Glasgow Warriors on Saturday, the Eastern Cape side’s attacking fullback, Michael Botha, says.
After three defeats on the spin, the Kings are desperate for an elusive opening Guinness PRO14 victory at the Nelson Mandela University’s Madibaz Stadium.
The venue was switched from the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, because extra preparation time is required for the Test between SA and Australia on September 29.
“I think the guys know where we fell short in all three of our opening games. So going into the Glasgow clash we know exactly what we need to do,” Botha said.
“The guys need to find it inside themselves and play for the full 80 minutes.
“In our first games we only lost in the last 10 or 15 minutes. If we can last for the full 80 minutes, the boys will pull it off this weekend.”
Botha, 21, has risen through the ranks at a rapid pace and caught the eye of Kings head coach Deon Davids after shining for the EP Elephants in the SuperSport Rugby Challenge earlier in the season.
A marauding fullback, Botha tore through opposition defences using his pace and neat footwork in the SuperSport Rugby Challenge.
The former Selborne College and Border Craven Week star was thrown in at the deep end at the start of the season.
But he repaid Davids’ confidence by scoring a sparkling try on his debut against Italian outfit Zebre in Parma.
“It was an unreal feeling to score that first try against Zebre. I have no words for it. When I saw the tryline I just pinned my ears back.
“My introduction to PRO14 rugby has been sudden, and I did not expect things to hapeven pen this fast,” he said.
“I have found PRO14 a lot quicker than the rugby that I have played before. But I like a quick game, so it has been a nice adjustment to make.
Botha said his teammates had been very supportive.
“I am lucky to have the backing of the coaches and teammates and they have made it a lot easier.
“Before I ran on for my first game against Zebre they all came through to say they backed me whatever I did.
“I also always tell myself that once you have that first touch or tackle things become a lot easier.
“I played with Yaw Penxe at junior level and former Bok Bjorn Basson is always there for me during games.
“Backline coach Chumani Booi has also been a great help making things easier.
“I think one of my best attributes is my speed and I really enjoy the counter from the back with a little of the footwork that I use.”
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