Loose forward Paul de Villiers aims to continue delivering eye-catching performances for the unbeaten Stormers on their European tour.
The Cape side sits top of the Vodacom URC log with three wins from three matches – including two clean sheets – and is preparing to face Italian club Zebre in Parma on Saturday.
De Villiers says he’s relishing the competition for places in the Stormers back row, and is determined to make himself “irreplaceable”.
The 22-year-old has been one of the standout performers in the opening rounds of the season, delivering tireless displays at the breakdown and earning praise for his physicality and work rate. He has become a key figure in a loose trio that continues to set the platform for the team’s success.
De Villiers on Tuesday credited veteran flanker Deon Fourie for his guidance and influence –both on and off the field.
He’s a massive role model and I do ask his advice quite regularly. Deon obviously plays a massive role on and off the field and will definitely be missed,” said De Villiers.
With Fourie sidelined for a lengthy period due to a bicep injury, De Villiers has stepped up in the Stormers’ loose-forward mix, relishing the responsibility that comes with more starting opportunities.
“For me it’s really about continuing to do what I’ve been doing, especially at the breakdowns, making sure our defence has a bit more time, slowing down ball and turning over possession. It is an area that we pride ourselves in,” he explained.
De Villiers added that earning a starting role each week fuels his motivation to grow and push his own standards even higher.
“Any player enjoys being backed by their coach and it’s one of the ways of improving my personal game. It’s an opportunity then for me to make myself irreplaceable in a way – but I don’t mean that in an arrogant way. I want to be able to bring something that the team can’t play without. There’s massive competition among the loose forwards and I’m loving the challenge.”
