The DHL Stormers returned to winning ways on December 21, 2024, defeating the Emirates Lions 29-10 at the DHL Stadium, marking their first victory after four consecutive losses. This match was not just another game; it symbolized the team's resolve as they look forward to future contests, especially with their next match against rivals, the Sharks, looming on the horizon.
The Stormers opened the scoring with three unconverted tries, establishing dominance early on. The initial try came from hooker Joseph Dweba, who blended strength and determination, crashing over from close range after sustained pressure. The forward pack’s collective effort was instrumental, showing the Stormers' strategic approach as they capitalized on opportunities presented to them.
Things took a decidedly rough turn for the Lions during the first half. Lock Ruben Schoeman received a straight red card for a dangerous tackle on flyhalf Manie Libbok, reducing the Lions to 14 men. This pivotal moment shifted momentum heavily toward the Stormers, who, confident of their one-man advantage, drove home their initial lead.
After Schoeman's red card, the Stormers swiftly added to their score. Shortly followed by Dweba's first try, Manie Libbok executed a perfectly-timed cross-kick find right-wing Suleiman Hartzenberg, who easily finished the play to extend the lead. Dweba would add another before halftime, scoring his second try; the Stormers went to the locker room with a solid 15-0 lead.
Edwill van der Merwe brought the Lions onto the scoreboard shortly after the halftime break, using his trademark speed and skill to gather his own chip kick, showing individual brilliance as he crossed on the right side. Hope surged through the ranks of the Lions' supporters, but the Stormers quickly quashed any burgeoning momentum. Minutes later, they struck back as Leolin Zas capitalized on space created by Warrick Gelant's slick interior pass to claim the bonus point try.
The Lions, undeterred, showcased inventiveness within their play, leading to their second try when substitute hooker Franco Marais found the line after a set-piece move, showing creativity even as they were down to 13 men after center Manny Ras received yellow for repeated infractions. The Stormers faced moments of defensive pressure but maintained their composure.
It was Neethling Fouché who put the final nail in the Lions’ hopes, scoring under the posts with five minutes left, confirming the Stormers' return to form with five tries scored to the Lions' two. Despite missing all conversions due to windy conditions, the final score of 29-10 was one of significance for the Stormers.
After the match, JD Schickerling reflected on the importance of the victory, stating, "Snapping a four-game losing streak by beating the Lions 29-10 at the DHL Stadium was a big step in the right direction for the Stormers." This win not only brought about renewed confidence but also provided valuable points as they aimed to climb the rankings.
Now with momentum on their side, the Stormers shift their focus to the upcoming clash against their local rivals, the Sharks. This fixture is known for its intensity, making it one the Stormers are eager to prepare for, buoyed by this recent success. With lessons learned from past frustrations, they’re aiming to keep the winning momentum alive as the season progresses.
