The DHL Stormers held out against a late fightback from the Vodacom Bulls in Cape Town on Saturday to claim a seventh successive victory over their rivals.
Also read: The ultimate game guide: Where to go before and after the rugby today
Ruhan Nel’s fourth try of the season gave the Stormers enough of a buffer to claim a 26-20 Vodacom URC derby, to continue their unbeaten run in the tournament against the Vodacom Bulls.
Ruhan Nel doing Ruhan Nel things 🤩#BKTURC #URC | #STOvBUL | DHL @TheStormers pic.twitter.com/VA3CMgjz9y
— BKT United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial) December 23, 2023
It was a brave display from the hosts, who came into the match already without nearly an entire lineup of players and saw Jean-Luc du Plessis and Clayton Blommetjies injured during the match.
A thrilling and absorbing encounter at DHL Stadium saw both teams have their moments, but the Vodacom Bulls will be frustrated with their discipline, with soft penalties allowing the Stormers to build scoreboard pressure.
The Stormers took a 16-10 lead into the break and would’ve been frustrated not to be further ahead, as they failed to fully capitalise on a yellow card to Gerhard Steenekamp for a dangerous tackle.
Injuries to du Plessis and Blommetjies forced the Stormers to twice reshuffle their backline, with fullback Damian Willemse shifting to centre and scrumhalf Paul de Wet to the wing.
Cape {town} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city at half the price? Let these amazing offers inspire you. Get them here.
The Vodacom Bulls came out firing in the second half and narrowed the deficit to two points when Willie le Roux put Canan Moodie over in the corner.
However, the Stormers continued to fight and, through excellent kick pressure, created the opportunity for Nel to stretch the lead to nine points.
The Vodacom Bulls enjoyed a plethora of opportunities in the last 15 minutes, but precision linespeed from the Stormers prevented the visitors from fully capitalising.
After seeing out a five-metre lineout in their 22, the Stormers forced the Vodacom Bulls 80 metres back and forced an error to bring an end to the contest.
The Stormers take on the Sharks at the DHL Stadium on Saturday, 30 December 2023.
Kick-off is at 7pm.
Explore Cape Town and its surroundings with these incredible deals on cars for under R100 000. Find car listings here.
Also read:
Jive’s new campaign celebrates the Western Cape’s unique nicknames
Picture: @THESTORMERS / X
Words: SA Rugby Magazine