Share

Fleck pleased with Jean-Luc progress

Cape Town - The flyhalf battle on Saturday - the experience of Elton Jantjies against the rawness of Jean-Luc du Plessis - was one of the most highly anticipated duels going into Saturday's Super Rugby clash between the Lions and the Stormers. 

In the end, the Lions were seven points better than their opposition at Ellis Park, and that was probably a fair reflection as the hosts edged their visitors in most departments. 

Jantjies was clinical - his distribution consistently good as he kicked his goals and cleared his lines with the accuracy expected of a flyhalf in form. 

The Lions playmaker also slotted a crucial drop goal in the final minutes to stretch his side's lead to 29-22.  

Du Plessis, meanwhile, also gave a good account of himself. 

The Stormers pivot, in just his second Super Rugby start, slotted 6 out 7 kicks at goal (Jantjies was 6 from 6) and while he may have been slightly at fault defensively for allowing Faf de Klerk through for the Lions' second try, Du Plessis was largely solid. 

"He’s growing as a player," Fleck said of his latest No 10.

"He’s still got a fair bit to go ... he’s showing some neat touches.

"I felt that he controlled the game at stages quite well. We struggled to exit, which was a problem for us … the Lions kept us in our own half for some time.

"He’s a young player. He’s already played at this level … he’s going to be good."

Du Plessis is set for an extended run in the Stormers side after injuries ruled Robert du Preez and Kurt Coleman out for the majority of the season. 

The Stormers take on the Reds in Cape Town on Saturday, with kick-off at 15:00. 

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE