Hurricanes say goodbye to Green Mile
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- Published on Thursday, 01 March 2012 12:22
- Written by Megan Kinnaird
Following their 39-26 defeat to the Stormers last Saturday, the Hurricanes spent some of their last day in Cape Town practising on the UCT fields.
Despite the loss, coach Mark Hammett is determined that they will be taking what positives they can with them into this weekend’s match against the Lions.
In an interview with Varsity Newspaper, he stated “of course, we’ll take our losses”, but in no way are they going to let the defeat affect their preparations for this weekend. Hammett claims how “just like the game of rugby, you need to get over the advantage line, drag the opposition out to create some space” to get ahead.
Additionally, they will take a close look at the rugby style of the Lions, which appears to be more aggressive than the other teams, and accommodate their preparation accordingly.
Hammett admits that they are a relatively “new group” despite the obvious experience in players such as Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Chris Eaton and Ben May. However, they do not consider themselves underdogs in any way.
Hammett stated that “we certainly don’t train or prepare as underdogs. We prepare to win every game.” It will be this determined attitude for success, despite the odds, that will have the potential to carry the team forward.
In Hammett’s 21st trip to Cape Town he had nothing but kind words for what he describes has “become a second home.” He listed Robben Island, the V & A Waterfront and the range of top-class restaurants available as contributing factors to their enjoyable stay.
Similarly, Hammett praised the state of the UCT rugby fields as fully marked out and in fine condition, as well as the other training amenities on offer to them at UCT.
The Hurricanes head to Johannesburg after a 10 day stay in Cape Town. On Saturday they will play the Lions at the Coca Cola Park. Kick-off is at 7.10pm.