Thriller on the cards as Hogs, Rhinos clash

Calistus Kolantsho | Friday April 21, 2017 16:40

 

Rhinos are second with four points while Hogs find themselves at the bottom with a single point after the first game of the season.

Rhinos have an upper hand going into the game, with a forward pack that is more solid and fitter, but Hogs always have secret weapons.

Rhinos’ backline has not changed much so they have a better chance of breaking the line more often than Hogs as they have revamped the squad with young players. 

Normally, when a team wants to run away with maximum points from Rhinos, it should possess a wealth of experience and skill.

 The Gaborone derby carries historical enmity between the two powerhouses. Hogs have been  dominant over Rhinos in recent times.

Rhinos coach, Mooketsi Ramakele told Mmegi Sport that since this is the only game two of a 14-game season, where they are going to play Hogs at least four times, he is not putting too much pressure on the boys.

Ramakele said their main focus is on September when they would play in the semi-final and final. 

He said for the first round, they are focusing on refining their game and fix weaknesses observed in the win they picked against Canon Jaguars last weekend. 

“Our preparations are going well so far with the human resources we have, even though we have some of our front rowers out with injuries. We can do with what we have,” he said.

Ramakele said he expects to see his charges executing their game plan effectively.

He pointed out they want to have a dominant scrum, line-out and improved kicking as well as a structured effective defence line.

Ramakele said if all that is well executed, he would enjoy the game.

For his part, Hogs coach, Louis Fourie is beaming with confidence, aware of what he has in store for his opponents.

He said his players are in top shape as they started pre-season training in January.

He said the players are responding well and are physically fit. Fourie said they have a good game plan and they hope it would be executed well on the day against Rhinos.

“I have included young players into the squad and they have hunger to build their profile.

They stepped up their game when we played against BDF Cheetahs.  We are looking forward to an exciting game against Rhinos,” he said.

Fourie said normally the engine of the team should kick in first, but he believes that a team should work as a unit to get positive results.

 He also believes that his side has enough depth to cause an upset on the day.

 Meanwhile, Fourie said players must not lose hope when they do not make it into the starting line-up because not all players can be included at a go.