The Stormers got back to winning ways with a 34-19 victory over Irish giants Munster in Cape Town on Saturday night.
It was a scrappy game characterised by several errors from both teams, but the Stormers will be chuffed to finally bag a win over a team that previously proved their nemesis.
The final scoreline perhaps flattered the home side, who only led 21-19 heading into the final 10 minutes before sealing the contest in style. A late intercept try from centre Ruhan Nel - his second of the game - also saw the hosts secure a try-scoring bonus point.
Before this game, the Stormers had never beaten Munster in four previous URC games. One of those games was the 2023 URC final, which Munster won 19-14 at Cape Town Stadium.
For the Stormers, Springbok Damian Willemse had a good game at flyhalf. He also vitally slotted all of his kicks at goal which proved vital in the final outcome.
Willemse succeeded with four conversions, a penalty and also kicked a crucial late drop goal which secured the win. He was duly awarded with the Man of the Match accolade.
That DHL Stadium roar... Cape Town will be rocking tonight ?????#BKTURC #URC | #STOvMUN pic.twitter.com/ivUI2y2S4J
The Stormers led 14-12 at half-time. Winger Suleiman Hartzenberg scored an early intercept try, while loose forward Marcel Theunissen scored late in the half after taking a quick tap close to the touchline.
Snatch and Dash ?
Hartzenberg intercepts and sprints untouched, scoring for the DHL @thestormers#BKTURC #URC | #STOvMUN pic.twitter.com/TgeEuLTWlo
But in between those scores it was Munster who dominated for large parts. They scored via centre Tom Farrell, and replacement hooker Eoghan Clarke.
It was an error-strewn first half from both sides, especially at lineout time
Munster
URC
cape town
stormers
Rugby
Tom Farrell
Marcel Theunissen