The Stormers are spurred on by the performances of Tottenham and Liverpool in last week’s Champions League semifinals.
Back from the dead, Spurs beat Ajax and Liverpool beat Barcelona to book a spot in this season’s final.
The Stormers, meanwhile, have struggled in this year’s Super Rugby tournament, currently at the bottom of the South African Conference, with defending champions Crusaders coming to town this week for a 5.15pm showdown at Newlands this Saturday.
BELIEF: Stormers CEO Paul Zacks. Photo: File Image.
Western Province Rugby CEO Paul Zacks knows they need a miracle if they want to make the playoffs this year, but believes it is possible if you look at what happened in the world of soccer last week.
Zacks says: “Rugby is a game of inches and there have been some frustrating results this season from the Stormers where the rub of the green has not gone our way, but we all need to give them our full support as we get closer to the playoffs.
NEVER GIVE UP: Liverpool stars celebrate win. Photo: Peter Powell/EPA.
“We have seen some inspirational stories in the Uefa Champions League in recent weeks, with both Liverpool and Tottenham producing epic comebacks which show what is achievable if all stakeholders are aligned.
“There is no reason, with all the quality we have in our playing and coaching group, that the Stormers cannot emulate those performances this season.”
The WPRFU Board met with coach Robbie Fleck last week and continued to back their mentor to get them over the line, before he leaves at the end of the season.
With four of their five remaining matches at home, the union’s president, Zelt Marais, has called on fans to come out in support of the team.
EMOTIONS RUNNING HIGH: Tottenham in final. Photo: Matthew Childs/Reuters.
Marais says: “I would like to urge everyone to follow the lead of the Board and show why they are known as the Newlands Faithful.
“Let’s all come together and show the world why our fans are known for their passion and loyalty.”