Libbok makes huge Springbok statement with star URC knockout performances

Stormers flyhalf Manie Libbok has made a massive statement to the Springbok selectors and management over the past two weekends, with two man-of-the-match performances helping his side book their place in the United Rugby Championship (URC) Grand Final.

In their 33-21 quarterfinal win over the Bulls, Libbok was in sublime form to produce two try assists and have a flawless kicking performance for a haul of 18 points.

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He followed that up with an even better showing in their 43-25 semi-final win over Connacht, scoring two tries, producing one try assist and despite a howling wind, landed six of his eight shots at goal on the night for a personal tally of 23 points.

It has been a stirring return to form for the Bok hopeful after a difficult few weeks in the build up to the competition knockouts.

Despite his sublime form Libbok was humble as ever after the game and quick to credit his team mates for his amazing form.

“I must just give credit to my team mates. Especially the forwards, they give me the platform to perform and be at my best. So I am happy for them and thankful to them for giving me the platform to do my thing,” said Libbok.

Speaking about the match Libbok admitted that they had to weather an early storm from Connacht, who took a shock early 8-0 lead before the Stormers came fighting back, and explained that the wind made it a difficult night for the kickers.

“They came at us from the word go. So I am just stoked that the guys stuck in there and absorbed that pressure. We had a plan for them, stuck to our guns and executed the plan to the best of our ability and it paid off,” said Libbok.

“It was tough for the kickers. We were never able to get a nice sweet strike on the ball because it was constantly moving. So I am happy that we dealt with it well.”

Make amends

Arguably Libbok’s worst game of the URC so far came last month in the Stormers first home loss in over a year when they were stunned by Munster at the Cape Town Stadium in the pool phase.

He now gets a fantastic opportunity to make amends when they welcome their Irish challengers for the Grand Final in two weeks’ time.

“That performance against Munster was tough, especially kicking at goal. That kind of game builds your character. I take a lot of learnings out of games like that because they remind you that there is still a lot to work to improve on. You go back and put the work in,” explained Libbok.

“I got my confidence back again in the Benetton game (the following weekend) and then the Bulls (quarterfinal) game, I just put my head down and kept working on my craft so I could be in the best possible position to perform on the weekend.”