Stormers target fitting tribute for Chippie Solomon in crucial URC clash against Connacht

There is a sombre atmosphere in the Stormers camp following the passing of their long-term manager, Chippie Solomon, this past Saturday.

Director of rugby John Dobson also admitted they are behind where they should be in terms of planning for what awaits against Connacht this coming Saturday (1.45pm start). They have yet to select the squad for the clash and will likely only do so on Tuesday.

That is understandable, though, when you’ve lost one of the biggest and most experienced figures in your team — someone the players looked up to as a second father figure, a mentor, an ever-listening ear and a shoulder to lean on in tough times.

It will be a difficult week for the team, even beyond this crucial United Rugby Championship (URC) match. However, they have vowed to make DHL Stadium a special place on Saturday to celebrate Solomon’s legacy.

“It will be difficult to speak about Chippie without resorting to clichés and becoming emotional,” Dobson said on Monday.

“I was chatting to Felix Jones (Springbok assistant coach), and he spoke about when Munster lost Axel Foley, as he was empathising with us. He said you end up feeling zombie-like, in disbelief and terribly emotional. That is how we feel.

“As I said to the team — not that I am necessarily right — things will never be the same again, and that is a massive credit to Chippie. He is irreplaceable.”

Stormers stalwart Deon Fourie recalled a time when Solomon was his first roommate on tour when he made his debut in Super Rugby. He added that Solomon probably loved his kids more than himself.

“That was 18-years ago. He meant a lot to my family and me. Chippie embodied what the Stormers stand for. It was his goal in life to make people smile. We can all strive to be just a little bit like him.

“We can use this as some motivation when we are playing and as we look to reach another final, but there is a fine line between it being positive or it being an Achilles heel in the lead-up to a game.”

Dobson added that they are expecting a desperate Connacht side and are well aware of what the Irish club is capable of in such circumstances. The Stormers want not only to deliver a performance that maintains their second spot on the URC log, but also to honour Solomon’s memory.

Following the Connacht clash, the Stormers face Glasgow at the DHL Stadium, and that match could determine if the Cape side can go top of the log.

“We want to do something special for Chippie on Saturday and, hopefully, people will come out and support us. We also have a chance of breaking the season attendance record in the URC, so we want people to come, celebrate his life and enjoy the rugby.”

“This is a massive game for us; we have the opportunity to end at the top of the log, or it can go the other route. This is a great opportunity for the team in a difficult time. So, we want to grab this and do justice to the legacy of Chippie.

“If the people can get behind us in the next two home games, we can potentially reward them with a few play-off games.”