Dobson Rolls The Dice: Teen Sensation Muller Thrown Into Stormers’ Massive Glasgow Showdown

Stormers head coach John Dobson has made a bold selection call ahead of Saturday’s blockbuster United Rugby Championship clash against Glasgow Warriors.

The high-stakes encounter at Cape Town Stadium (kick-off 1.45pm) sees the top two sides go head-to-head, with just four points separating them. A victory for the Stormers could see them reclaim top spot with only two league games remaining before the play-offs.

Dobson’s team selection has turned heads, with 18-year-old Markus Muller set to become the youngest player ever to feature for the Stormers.

Dobson On Muller Debut: ‘He Deserves This Opportunity’

Dobson made it clear that Muller’s inclusion is no last-minute gamble but a reward for his potential and progress through the ranks.

“We wanted to play Markus this season, and we wanted to play him against the Dragons. But we didn’t see him because he was in the SA U20 camp,” Dobson said. “He’s a great player and we wanted to show that if you come through at the Stormers, you’ll have an opportunity.”

Despite the pressure of a must-win clash, the coach insists now is the right time to blood the youngster.

“I don’t want to overhype him, but there’s something special there.”

Dobson added that Muller would be eased into the match if needed, with options like Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu available to shift positions.

“I want him to have 10 or 15 minutes at a high level. I don’t want him to go off to the U20 Championships and we go to the Currie Cup, and he hasn’t had this experience.”

Damian Willemse Returns to Fullback After Fan Backlash

Another major talking point is the positional switch of Damian Willemse, who moves back to fullback after recent appearances on the wing sparked debate.

Dobson defended his earlier tactical decision, pointing to Willemse’s strong performances out wide.

“I think if one looked at the technical things, Willemse made more carries than Dan du Plessis last week, and in the contestable game, I think we won 75% to nought. I’ve never seen that before.”

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“He played exceptionally well on the wing. I think we all know wing and fullback are interchangeable.”

Still, the coach admitted the outside noise played a role in the decision to shift him back.

“I’m also aware it’s deeply unpopular,” Dobson said. “I know of the public perception and how much trouble we’ve got into for playing him on the wing.”

With United Rugby Championship play-off spots and top position on the line, all eyes will be on whether Dobson’s bold calls pay off in what promises to be a fiery showdown.