Kings coach calls for a big step up


Expect the Isuzu Southern kings to throw everything, including the kitchen sink, at Ulster as they bid to ignite their stuttering Guinness PRO14 campaign on Sunday.
The teams have experienced contrasting fortunes in the opening two rounds and a lively showdown is on the cards at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
While the Kings have been beaten by Zebre and the Dragons on the road, Ulster arrived in South Africa with two wins under their belt.
In the lead-up to the match, Kings head coach Deon Davids made it clear that he wants his team to step up in several departments after their opening showings.
He has expressed dissatisfaction at the quality of rugby his team displayed and has demanded a bigger effort from his forward pack.
Getting over the advantage line on attack and defence would be vital for the Kings against a physical Ulster team, Davids said.
“Ulster have some huge forwards and backs and they thrive on dominance. And we will have to handle the advantage line,” Davids said.
“When they spread the ball wide they have some wings with international experience.
“But the focus this week has been on ourselves, and we know where the challenge will be.
“We want to ensure from an attacking and defensive point of view that we can get over the advantage line. That is what the game is about.
“If we can do that then we have some exciting outside backs that we can use.
“It will be physical and it will be tough and we must take a step up.”
Fullback Michael Botha, who was ruled out of last weekend’s match against the Dragons due to a groin injury, will be back in the No 15  jersey after making a full recovery.
The match starts at 2.15pm.

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