Stephen Nell - Die Burger
Cape Town - Reds flyer Digby Ioane will do his best to stay out of Sireli Naqelevuki’s way if the Stormers declare the giant Fijian fit for Friday night’s Super 14 clash at Newlands.
Ioane’s impressive try for the Reds in the weekend’s 20-33 defeat to the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld will serve as a warning to the Stormers what the Aussies can do if their outside backs are released in space or get broken field.
Nick Koster played on the left wing for the Stormers against the Sharks at the weekend and performed well on debut. However, the Sharks did not attempt to exploit his inexperience and with the pressure squarely on the Stormers after their defeat, a fit Naqelevuki should have the inside track to wear the No 11 jersey.
“All of them (Stormers wings) are good players, especially the Fijian. He’s a big guy and I don’t want to get in his way. I’ll try my best!” Ioane said with a laugh.
Should the Stormers opt for Koster again, the Reds will probably target him.
Flyhalf Quade Cooper and inside centre Berrick Barnes can both kick on him, while Wallaby wings Ioane and Peter Hynes are among the visitors’ strengths.
“We’ll look at that,” said Ioane when he was asked whether they would attempt to pressurise Koster if he plays.
“We’re still studying the Stormers’ game. He (Koster) can be a Jonah Lomu – a forward retreaded into a back. Anything can happen.
“He may dominate the game and break the line, particularly because he is a forward. You have to place him under pressure quickly because once he builds momentum he can be dangerous.”
Ioane has played four tests for Australia. He made his Wallaby debut against Wales in 2007.
“My focus is currently just on performing well for the Reds. I still have a lot to learn,” said Ioane.