Stormers Turn Attention To Harlequins After Gritty Bulls Derby

Stormers Turn Attention To Harlequins After Gritty Bulls Derby

There was no time for long celebrations in Cape Town this week. The bruises from a fierce local derby were still fresh when the Stormers squad began turning their attention to an altogether different challenge waiting in London.

After edging the Bulls 13–8 in a tense United Rugby Championship showdown at a packed DHL Stadium, the mood around the Stormers camp has been quietly confident rather than euphoric. It was a performance built on grit, defence and patience rather than flair, and one that reminded supporters why these derby clashes still mean everything in South African rugby.

Recovery Mode In Cape Town

Stormers forwards coach Rito Hlungwani admitted the physical toll of the Bulls clash was clear in the days that followed. The win may have extended their unbeaten URC run, but it came at a cost.

Sore bodies and ice baths have dominated training ground conversations this week, yet the message from the coaching group has been consistent. The job is far from done.

For a Cape Town audience that lives and breathes these rivalries, the Bulls victory felt personal. Social media lit up with fans praising the Stormers’ defensive resolve, with many pointing to the forward pack’s work rate as the difference on the night.

Set Pieces Setting The Tone

One of the quieter success stories from the derby was the Stormers’ dominance at lineout time. Winning 18 throws and repeatedly using the maul as an attacking weapon gave them crucial territory and control.

That set piece efficiency now becomes even more important as they prepare to face Harlequins in Round Three of the Champions Cup. European rugby, especially away from home, rarely offers second chances.

London Presents A Different Test

Harlequins may be struggling for consistency in the English Premiership, but history has taught South African sides not to read too much into league form when playing at The Stoop.

Stormers fans still remember how unforgiving European away fixtures can be, particularly in winter conditions. This time around, the Cape side believes experience could tilt the balance. Several players who travelled previously are now older, tougher and more accustomed to the demands of northern hemisphere rugby.

Hlungwani made it clear the respect for the opposition is real, but so is the belief.

Pressure, Pride And Perspective

From a local lens, this trip feels bigger than just another pool match. South African teams are still carving out their identity in European competition, and performances like this one shape perceptions back home and abroad.

Online, Stormers supporters have already begun debating selection calls and travel fatigue, while others are simply enjoying the rare feeling of momentum building early in the season.

For now, though, the Stormers are focused on one thing. Heal up, prepare properly and arrive in London ready to test themselves against Harlequins on their own turf.

{Source:SABC Sport}

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