Harlequins' Cadan Murley scores against the Stormers. The Cape-based side are on six match losing streak. | EPA
As the Stormers prepare to host the high-flying Lions at DHL Stadium this Saturday, the stakes could not be higher for the former (URC) winners. With a dismal start to their season across all competitions, the Stormers find themselves at a pivotal crossroads.
It's a @Vodacom #URC derby day at DHL Stadium on Saturday.
— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) December 16, 2024
🎟️ Get your tickets here https://t.co/KDey12aAA0#iamastormer #dhldelivers pic.twitter.com/k3e0kOOriA
A convincing win is not just desirable but mandatory as they look to bounce back from four consecutive losses in all competitions. They’ve lost two on the trot in the URC and their survival hinges on wins in their next two local derbies.
In a strategic move, the Stormers opted to send a second-string side to compete against Harlequins in the Champions Cup, keeping their key players fresh for this crucial derby. Their commitment to focus on the Lions clash signifies the urgency of the moment, particularly following a humbling 53-16 defeat to the English side.
Coach John Dobson and his squad will be looking to harness their collective experience and return to winning ways against a Lions team that boasts significant momentum.
Festive Derbies Incoming… 💥
— BKT United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial) December 16, 2024
Here’s how the league table looks after 7 rounds of action 👀#BKTURC #URC pic.twitter.com/VOZ7LmyYTZ
The Lions, who are currently sitting comfortably in fifth place on the URC log, come into the match buoyed by their recent success, having claimed their first Challenge Cup victory against Pau last weekend.
Despite failing to beat the Stormers since the inaugural season, they remain eager to continue their fine form. The Lions are well aware of the threat the rested Stormers pose, particularly in front of a home crowd.
Two blockbuster South African derbies 🇿🇦
— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) December 15, 2024
Get your tickets and kickstart the festive period in style 😍☀️@Vodacom #URC pic.twitter.com/BsQq1CxN4r
Meanwhile, the rivalry intensifies later in the evening, as the Sharks and Bulls prepare to square off in Durban in another gripping URC encounter, kicking off at 6 pm. This clash is set to showcase a fierce battle between two sides loaded with Springbok talent.
The Sharks, having previously rested their stars for the Champions Cup, will now showcase their full strength against a Bulls outfit keen to solidify their position near the top of the log.
Kings Park is expected to be electric as both teams strive to assert dominance. The battle in the scrums, featuring potential all-Bok front rows, is one to watch, along with the loose forward duel expected between promising newcomers and seasoned veterans.
Cameron Hanekom was an unstoppable force against Northampton Saints 💥
— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) December 16, 2024
#InvestecChampionsCup pic.twitter.com/AiC3j6Oucr
Youngster Cameron Hanekom will look to build on his Player of the Match performance and face off against the likes of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, adding an exciting sub-plot to an already pivotal encounter.
The challenge ahead is daunting for both the Stormers and the Sharks as they look to regain lost momentum. Yet, with pride and URC stakes on the line, the weekend promises to deliver thrilling rugby, with each team vying for supremacy in South Africa’s top flight.