After the Toyota Cheetahs' 45-22 EPCR Challenge Cup loss to Stade Français on Saturday, coach Frans Steyn expressed fury and disappointment, stating the team “squandered a rare chance to make a statement” and needed to deliver “proper performances.”
Following this second pool defeat, the Cheetahs' playoff aspirations are significantly challenged, and Steyn mentioned the need to adapt their play based on the team's strengths and weaknesses for future matches.
“We had the chance to slaughter a giant today, and we didn’t. That is the most disappointing thing for me. I am obviously frustrated with the result. Only after watching the video will one get a better idea.”
Steyn was disappointed with the team's performance, particularly their collapse in the second half after leading 17-14 at halftime.
“If we had a few more moments like Jandré Nel’s try, it would have been fun, but at the moment it is not fun.”
“We had it, and at some point, we need to switch on and start delivering proper performances because at the moment we are not proving a point to anybody.”
He emphasised the need for accountability and focus, stating the team needs to “switch on and start delivering proper performances.”
“I don’t think we are going to hit the reset button. I think we are going to think about this one for a while.”
Steyn intends to review the game repeatedly to learn from their mistakes and avoid repeating them. While acknowledging the impact of key player injuries, he stressed that it was no excuse, highlighting that players need to step up when others are unavailable.
“I am going to play this one over and over so that we try not to make the same mistakes when we get back here. I think we have a great side and everybody has their strengths and weaknesses, and we need to play more to that.”
“We continuously put ourselves under pressure. We have to handle those things better and be better. We definitely missed Victor, but we are all paid to do a job. When one goes down, the other one needs to step up.”