Watch VideoStormers back Jurie Matthee for crucial URC semi-final against Leinster

Forwards coach Rito Hlungwani has backed flyhalf Jurie Matthee to shine in Dublin as the Stormers prepare to face defending champions Leinster without the injured Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. Photo: Backpagepix The Stormerswill head into theirbiggest match of the seasonwithout star playmaker Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, but forwards coach Rito Hlungwani remains confident that replacement flyhalf Jurie Matthee is ready for the challenge awaiting them in Dublin. Feinberg-Mngomezulu suffered an ankle injury during the Stormers’ quarter-final victory over Cardiff at Cape Town Stadium and is expected to be sidelined for an extended period, leaving Matthee in line to start against defending United Rugby Championship champions Leinster at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

While the injury robs the Cape side of one of South African rugby’s brightest talents, Hlungwani dismissed suggestions that it would force a major rethink of the Stormers’ approach. “Injuries are part of the game,” he said at a Stormers media briefing on Monday. “It’s always tough losing players, but it’s also an opportunity for other players to take that opportunity.

Sacha is injured, so Jurie comes in. It’s part of the game and something we feel we can handle.” The coach pointed to Matthee’s experience in the system and his role in the Stormers’ impressive start to the season, including the opening-round victory over Leinster in Cape Town.