What does it entail to be an X-factor player? Look no further than Springbok and Stormers standout Deon Fourie for an example.
Ex-Springbok coach Jake White praised Deon Fourie as the perfect example of an X-factor player.
EX-SPRINGBOK COACH DEFINES AN X-FACTOR PLAYER
White commented that the Stormers’ key players, including Fourie, were instrumental in defeating his Bulls team. He explained that an X-factor player excels in unique skills.
According to Rugby365, White said, “X-Factor means you have certain excellent skills. It’s a misconception that X-Factor players are only those like No.10 and No.15 who can run and sidestep. X-Factor also means being smart enough to avoid unnecessary breakdowns, ensuring ball retention when carrying, and displaying the body language of a winner. That’s what X-Factors are too. It’s not just about having another backline player who can sidestep. Take Deon [Fourie], for instance – he was remarkable. He’s not a sidestepper, but he’s exceptionally good at what he does, and that’s his X-Factor.”
Fourie believed that matching the Bulls in terms of intensity was crucial for their victory, something the Stormers managed to achieve in their 26-20 United Rugby Championship win.
FORTRESS CAPE TOWN
The Stormers veteran emphasized their ambition to make the DHL Stadium a stronghold and thanked the large crowd for their support.
“If you match their [physicality], you’ve already won half the battle,” Fourie remarked. “We aim to make this [Cape Town stadium] a unique place. We want people to come here, enjoy rugby, and love Cape Town. While Newlands will always be iconic, we are also creating something special here.”
Despite the celebrations, Stormers coach John Dobson described the performance as average. “Today [Saturday] was a tough derby, and beating a challenging team like Stade Rochelais is a significant win,” Dobson stated. “We did something remarkable last week, which went unrecognized. However, today’s [Saturday] performance was just a standard Stormers performance.”
