Dobson Explains Tactical Shift After Emotional Week

Head coach John Dobson reflected on a challenging period for his team, highlighting the emotional toll of recent weeks while praising their renewed focus and balanced strategy in a sensational victory over Glasgow Warriors.

The Stormers suffered a shock defeat to Connacht last week, capping an emotionally draining period following the passing of team manager Chippie Solomon.

However, the side responded emphatically, producing a standout performance as they ran the Warriors ragged and crossed for six tries.

Dobson confirmed that the pain of that difficult week served as a powerful motivator, fuelling the team’s response.

“Put last week into context — how tough and emotional it was,” Dobson said.

“This week, we were able to focus more on rugby.”

That shift in mindset was evident in their approach. Dobson noted a more direct and controlled style of play, in contrast to the urgency that affected their previous performance.

“We played more directly, and we had to. Last week, we were so desperate to score points. This time, we were more conservative and focused on applying pressure. We knew we could do that at the set piece, and I think it was effective,” he added.

Dobson also addressed criticism following the defeat to Connacht, calling for greater understanding of the team’s circumstances.

“We received a lot of criticism for the Connacht performance, but people need to understand what this team was going through — what ‘Chippie’ meant to us and to this organisation.

“To expect the players to perform normally under those conditions — yes, we made mistakes, but some of it comes down to a lack of humanity,” he said.

He also referenced their narrow loss in Toulon, suggesting that key decisions went against them and may have influenced the result, feeding into external narratives.

“Going to Toulon and losing due to a decision that, by their own admission, shouldn’t have stood — and then reading headlines like ‘the Stormers’ slide continues’ — shows a lack of understanding of the pressure these players are under.”

Reflecting on the loss of Solomon, Dobson acknowledged the profound impact it had on the squad.

“He was such a big part of our lives. He was the one constant in the organisation.”

On the field, the team showed improved composure by sticking to a simpler, more structured approach.

“It helped that we didn’t overplay with unnecessary passes. We didn’t feel the need to do that, and allowing moments of natural creativity to come through made a difference. The one thing that cost us — which was off-plan — was the grubber, and they scored from it.”

Looking ahead, Dobson believes the team is beginning to establish a clear blueprint for success as the playoffs approach, one that could help them challenge for the URC title.

“Our set piece has improved, and so have our contestable kicks. If we can play more directly and get on top of teams, then our playmakers can express themselves. I think that’s the template.”

With the knockout stages approaching, Dobson is confident his side can build on this performance and carry the momentum forward.

The URC will pause next week for the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup semi-finals.

The Stormers will then prepare for their upcoming tour, where they face Ulster and Cardiff to conclude their URC regular season.