Stormers out to rectify 2021 tour results as 3-match overseas spell gets underway

The Stormers enter the tour phase of the United Rugby Championship (URC) a different team to the one that played four away games at the start of last season, losing two and coming back with a draw and a win.

They are the holders of the inaugural tournament; are on a 13-match winning run and enter their three-match sojourn overseas on the back of South African teams (Lions and Sharks) doing relatively well on tour.

While on their overseas leg, the Lions have played two and won two. Ditto the Sharks, who have scrambled to two wins in their two matches. Both teams have one more game remaining before they return to their home bases.

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Does this put pressure on the champions or has it given them confidence?

"It doesn't put pressure on us as a team because there are certain goals we want to achieve in the next three games ahead of us," Stormers defence coach Norman Laker told reporters on Wednesday.

"There were a few things we didn't get right on Saturday against Edinburgh and we need to get them right for this weekend against Zebre."

Issues of discipline stood out from the Stormers' home game last past weekend. They also played with less possession and territory.

"Last year's tour was a great learning curve for the players and management having played in Super Rugby for years and then switching to the north, it was slightly different in terms of refereeing and playing style," Laker said.

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He also pointed out that their baptism of fire on tour last year was because the teams they played are saddled with internationals. 

"We will take