We'll win the title – Potgieter

Editor

Waratahs back-row Jacques Potgieter is convinced his side will overcome their mid-season slip and claim the Super Rugby title.

Waratahs back-row Jacques Potgieter is convinced his side will overcome their mid-season slip and claim the Super Rugby title.

The South African was part of the 'Tahs team that fell 21-13 to the Blues at Eden Park this weekend, having made a whopping 16 handling errors, but he waved away concerns over the sixth-placed franchise's Championship credentials.

“I don't know what to say, it's not a nice feeling to go out there and you know what to do and it's not happening,” Potgieter told AAP.

“We've got a lot of talent in this team, but in this competition talent won't be enough.

“We really have to work hard – and we're working hard – but we're just forcing those one or two extra passes.

“The boys, they've got all the skill but sometimes, when it's not on, I think you just have to be more patient.”

Over the years, the Waratahs have gained something of an unwanted reputation for failing to deliver when the pressure is on, against opponents they should beat. Potgieter remains unfazed.

“I don't really think too much about the past. I always knew the Waratahs would be a really good team,” added Potgieter.

“I came here because of Michael Cheika because I really liked the style and play that Michael brought into the system, which I saw last year, and then I wanted to be a part of that.

“I just thought with all the talent that we could go a long way – and I still believe that. Otherwise I wouldn't have come to the Waratahs.

“I just want to lift that trophy and I still think we're going to.

“Just the way the guys are there for each other – maybe it's not showing yet – but the games that it will show, the boys will pull it through.”