Cape Town - Kings defence coach, Omar Mouneimne, believes they will be competitive in the upcoming Vodacom Super Rugby competition.

The Super Rugby newcomers have been largely tipped to fail miserably in their first season in the top flight, but Mouneimne believes they could surprise a few people if they keep their heads down and work hard.

"I can't sit and let those talks bother me," the 38-year-old Mouneimne told Die Burger.

"I (also) can't sit and worry if the Crusaders are going to score 40 tries against us. Obviously I feel the pressure, but I have to make it work.

"You have to strive to improve every week. Every week you have to correct your mistakes and grow.

"We will be able to stand our man. As long as we can minimise our mistakes, we'll be competitive.

"But if we play careless and make a lot of mistakes, it could become a long season," he said.

Mouneimne does not only focus on defence. "I also help with different things like helping the players dominate with ball in hand during contact situations."

He's also participated in various martial arts, which landed him his first coaching role in rugby with the Blitzbokke in 2006. He helped the SA Sevens side with their play in contact situations and at the breakdowns. After that he went to Western Province and the Stormers before helping Italy's national side.

"It was a privilege to work with Nick Mallett at Italy," he said.

The Kings open their Super Rugby campaign at home to Australia's Force on Saturday, February 23.

HAVE YOUR SAY: How well do you think the Kings will perform in this year's Super Rugby competition? Can they surprise a few people? Send your thoughts to Sport24.