Dobbo blasts ‘rubbish’ Paulo criticism

John Dobson has backed Stormers hooker Vernon Paulo to put in a strong performance against Ulster in Cape Town.

By Morne Esben · SA Rugby Mag

Published: Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 7:19 AM

Key Things to Know

John Dobson defended hooker Vernon Paulo against criticism following the Stormers' lineout issues against Edinburgh.
Paulo will start against Ulster due to several injuries and a suspension across the Stormers squad.
Dobson stated only three of 11 lost lineouts were poor throws, citing weather and defensive pressure.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Stormers head coach John Dobson has strongly defended hooker Vernon Paulo, dismissing criticism over the team's lineout struggles against Edinburgh as "absolute rubbish." Paulo will start on Saturday against Ulster in Cape Town due to injuries to André-Hugo Venter and Deon Fourie, alongside a concussion for Lukhanyo Vokozela and JJ Kotzé's suspension.

Dobson explained that only three of the 11 lost lineouts were poor throws, blaming bad weather and Edinburgh's contesting rather than Paulo. Meanwhile, Bongi Mbonambi returns via the bench as captain Ruhan Nel warned against underestimating an Ulster side missing eight international players.

Read the full article on SA Rugby Mag

Dobbo blasts ‘rubbish’ Paulo criticism

More Rugby News

Never Miss a Sports Update