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Cape Town - Former Springbok coach Nick Mallett complimented the performance of Stormers centre Damian de Allende following their 52-24 win over the Southern Kings at Newlands.
De Allende has copped criticism from pundits in recent times over his defence as well as his lack of distribution.
But Mallett, speaking in the SuperSport studio after the game, had some praise for De Allende.
He also lauded Huw Jones’ performance after the centre ran in four tries.
“Huw Jones had a super game, it was just his day. He ran good, straight lines, showed strength with ball in hand and passed well,” said Mallett.
“I also want to compliment Damian de Allende today. We saw many more passes from him than we usually see, even though there were occasions when he did hang on to the ball. It was really good to see him actually passing the ball and give space to the outside centre.”
Mallett also heaped praise on the efforts of veteran loose forward Schalk Burger.
“Schalk Burger has developed his game immensely. I know people talk about him taking up the flyhalf position, but clearly he has got good ball skills. He is passing and making sure that other players are getting the ball on the outside and he hasn’t lost his physicality in the tackle. He is an extraordinary player, who has done wonderful things for South African rugby and I wouldn’t wish for anything more than the Stormers to win their quarter-final at Newlands so he can finish his career here on a high note.”
