Evan Roos: Stormers star relishing URC playoffs and reuniting ‘special’ loose trio

Stormers number eight Evan Roos is bracing himself for a ‘physical’ encounter against the Bulls in the United Rugby Championship (URC) quarter-final against the Bulls.

Last year’s finalist face off in the first playoff on Saturday, and following an injury-laden season, Roos is keen to make his mark in the same loose trio that won the competition last season.

The 23-year-old Springbok returned from injury in the penultimate round of the regular season, coming off the bench in the loss to Munster before starting against Benetton a week later.

Back in action

Roos is relishing the upcoming rematch of last season’s URC final and said he was concerned that he would not return in time from the business end of the tournament. 

“It’s been awesome being back and able to play again. I originally thought I was going to struggle, but it’s been good actually,” he told the Stormers’ official website. 

“The rehab went well, and we worked really hard; I’m feeling better each game.

“I’m just happy I’m running again normally, as I did before, and the knee is giving me no problems at all.”

He added: “Obviously, when I first got injured, I was kind of stressing about the rest of the season; how it was going to pan out, how long I would be out, etc.”

 “But things worked out quite well and got back just in time for the business end of the competition.

North-South derby

Ross is looking forward to the clash with the Bulls, a team the Stormers have a good record against in recent matchups.

The Capetonians have won their last five games against the Pretoria outfit, a run that includes the previous four league encounters and last season’s final. 

“I’m happy to be a part of this week’s match because knockout rugby is the best kind of rugby, and it is lekker to be in the mix,” he added.

“It’s a North-South derby, and you cannot expect anything less than a physical and really good game, with them bringing their A-game as always.

“The Vodacom Bulls are tough opponents, and respect is due where it’s due. They’re a quality outfit, and it’s going to be a spectacle. It’s kind of why we play this game, for these types of moments, and the DHL Stormers and I can’t wait for this weekend.”

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Star back row

Roos has impressed on his return from injury, and ahead of the playoff clash with the Bulls, Stormers boss John Dobson will have the services of veteran backrower Deon Fourie.

Fourie, Roos and Hacjivah Dayimani started in the loose trio that sealed the title last season and could reunite once again against the Bulls.

Fourie is fit again from an eyesocket injury, and Roos is eager to feature in the same back row once again. 

“I must say it’s great being reunited with Brannas and Hacjivah, it’s been a while since we’ve played together, and we had a pretty good season together last year,” he said.

“It makes it even more special for us three to be playing together again in the Vodacom URC quarter-finals. I’m really sure we’re going to enjoy it.”

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