The Toyota Free State Cheetahs wider-training group got back to training Bloemfontein yesterday with fitness tests in the morning and a light contact session and drills in the afternoon.
This follows a week long break from training in the team environment, after a few weeks of heavy fitness.
Yesterday coach Franco Smith and his support team focussed on trying avoid unnecessary rucks during games and getting the players into the habit of playing a fast, flowing and attractive game.
Captain, Francois Uys told Courant that in the past the team may have been a bit too one dimensional, but he believes it’s something they can change.
“One of our goals is definitely to play good rugby, rugby that the people would love to come and watch.
“To do that it will take a lot of breaking down of old habits.
“We’ve become a bit one dimensional at times, but with new and innovative ideas we can change that.
Yesterday the team also saw the return of a long lost son, Sias Ebersohn who has returned after a stint at the Western Force in
Australia.
The flyhalf looked exceptionally sharp and the difference in the player from before when he left to now is chalk and cheese.
This will give Smith selection headaches ahead of their campaign opener against the Blue Bulls with Fred Zeilinga, Niel Marais, Willie du Plessis and Coenie van Wyk all contenders as well for the flyhalf berth.
Ebersohn told Courant that he is glad to back home and wants to be part of the new look and rejuvenated Cheetahs.
“There’s a new generation at the Cheetahs and I thought I just want to be part of this and it’s a good time to come back.
“Start fresh, no history and whatever…just jump on with a clean sheet.
The player added that he is relishing the opportunity to fight for his spot in the team.
“In every team there’s a big challenge for every position and it’s not different at the Cheetahs, so the best player will play.
“No one is guaranteed game time…if you get the opportunity you’ve got to match the most of it.
Uys added that they are delighted to have Ebersohn back as well.
“It’s great to see Sias, he was here for most of his life then he went off and he’s back again, so it’s like welcoming back the lost son.
“Sias is a great character and it’s great to have him back.
The Free State Cheetahs kick-off their Currie Cup campaign on 8 August when they host the Blue Bulls at the Free State Stadium.
