WINDHOEK – Going into their third clash of the Vodacom Cup tomorrow at the Hage Geingob Stadium, FNB Welwitschias coach Henry Kemp is optimistic his charges will deliver a much-improved showing against the visiting Touch Down Griffons.
Namibia’s national rugby fifteen lost both their opening encounters against South African outfits Golden Lions (3-53) and Steval Pumas (7-61) at the Hage Geingob Stadium during the first round of the 2015 Vodacom Cup.
Despite the demoralising consecutive defeats, Kemp says they have analysed the errors committed in their first two matches and have been working around the clock to ensure no repeats when they lock horns against the highly physical Griffons.
“We are also focusing attention on perfecting our defence and tackling and other technical aspects of the game. It will not be easy but I’m confident the boys still have a point or two to prove, so the Griffons must expect nothing less from us,” said Kemp.
As for their opponents, Kemp admitted that all South African teams are very physical and that physicality is always part of their game but insists they will fight tooth and nail to make sure the South Africans are contained.
“Most of our players have fulltime jobs and thus only train after working hours, unlike South Africans who are fulltime rugby players and are always in the gym staying in top shape. So those small disadvantages will always come into play when one faces such teams but we won’t be focusing too much on that as we have our own game plan.”
Kemp stressed that the technical teams have done their part in making sure the team is well sharpened in the areas of ball-handling, tackling, stabilisation of the defence and overall coordination.