Veteran Deon Fourie praised for URC final masterclass: 'He made a massive difference'

United Rugby Championship (URC) final man of the match Deon Fourie received unwavering plaudits from his coach and teammates following Saturday's thrilling showpiece in Cape Town.

The Stormers won 18-13 and it was the mischievous Fourie who gave the Bulls all manner of problems at the breakdown - something which irked Bulls director of rugby, Jake White.

For Fourie, it was also his 100th game for the Stormers.

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According to White, Fourie was given carte blanche at the breakdown, but for the home side, Fourie's consistency was most pleasing.

Speaking to reporters after the game, Stormers head coach John Dobson continued to praise the 35-year-old's efforts.

"From where I was sitting [in the coach's box] we spent the first 30 minutes looking to the left side of the field because we were under the pump.

"We kicked really poorly but for some reason we stayed in the fight, probably epitomised mostly by Deon at the breakdown," said Dobson.

"Deon Fourie made a massive difference."

This place is absolutely rollicking right now! #URC @Sport24news pic.twitter.com/yQUWInCgYk

The Stormers overturned a 7-3 half-time score to secure the 2021/22 title.

Stormers replacement flank Nama Xaba also weighed in, and was equally complimentary about his senior.

"He's an amazing player ... he bailed us out twice," said Xaba.

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Dobson has often called Xaba and Fourie 'like-for-like' players because they are strong over the ball. 

"It's great to have Fourie as a mentor. Obviously at the beginning of the season it wasn't ideal because I wanted to be starting, but for someone who plays like that, I don't mind," Xaba added.

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