Kibirige expects confident Enisei to be real threat
Zach Kibirige is expecting Enisei STM to be a different quantity this weekend to the team that traveled to Kingston Park last November, as the two sides face off in round five of the European Rugby Challenge Cup.
Kibirige was in fine form in that game, as he and his team mates recorded a 55-7 win in what was a free flowing performance and while he and his team mates can take a lot of information from that game, the Yarm born winger says their Russian opponents have moved on.
Speaking to Falcons TV, Kibirige said, “ We can take a lot from the first leg in understanding what sort of team they are, but they have built massively since then and getting that win against Brive, so we have been watching a lot of their footage to understand how they are playing.”
Brand new to the competition this season, Enisei have proved that they intend to be seen as a credible side by looking to play an entertaining and open style of rugby.
After giving Connacht a thorough work out in round one in their home city of Krasnoyarsk, they took their first cross border win against Brive in round three, something that Kibirige says has given them a real boost.
“Enisei are building confidence, they play a bit more expansively and are moving the ball around, but we know what to expect and how much we have to respect them going out there. We have to be alive to that and respect the fact that they can play if they are given the chance.”
Expanding on what he feels it will take to ensure the Falcons return from Sochi with a crucial result, the 21 year old says it is all about denying Enisei opportunities and matching their efforts.
“We need to be 100% switched on and not give them chances because they will take them. We will have to match them physically and set out our stall that way, but as they have gained confidence they are looking to play.”
For the full interview with Zach, [click here][1] for Falcons TV
Saturday’s round five fixture kicks off at 11am UK time with a live stream available by [clicking here][2]
[1]: https://youtu.be/zQMBcmsNdL8
[2]: http://www.enisei-stm.ru/video/
