DHL Stormers flashback: Super spectacle…

Today at 8:00 am

Captain Chris van Zyl crashed for a late try as the DHL Stormers defeated the Vodacom Bulls in an exciting 2019 match at the DHL Stadium on Super Hero Sunday.

Fans turned up in droves and were rewarded with a spectacle of try-scoring, with both teams putting in a worthy performance, scoring a total of nine tries – seven of which came in the first half.

More than 45,000 supporters packed the venue for the Marvel-inspired double-header ahead of the Super Rugby season, with the Emirates Lions beating Hollywoodbets Sharks 19-14 in the opening match.

The DHL Stormers made an encouraging start, dominating territory and possession early on, but the opening try came from the defense when a big strike shook the ball loose for Scarra Ntubeni to pounce on. He charged onto the field before finding Seabelo Senatla, who finished with ease.

The crowd were soon back on their feet as flanker Jaco Coetzee broke free and charged into the 22, where he passed the ball to scrum-half Jano Vermaak who was brought down. Flyhalf Josh Stander hit the ball at high speed at a wide angle and went over for the second try.

The score went to 21–0 when winger SP Marais intercepted and cleared, skipping the final tackle just before the tryline and then knocking over the conversion as well.

The Vodacom Bulls responded with tries from Handre Pollard and Ivan van Zyl to bring themselves within seven points.

The DHL Stormers scored four tries in the first half as number 8 Juarno Augustus attacked and gathered to score and although the Vodacom Bulls had the final say in the first half with a try from Warrick Gelant, the DHL Stormers led 26-21 . in the break.

The Vodacom Bulls took the lead for the first time shortly after the restart with a try from close range by Paul Schoeman that was converted by Manie Libbok.

The DHL Stormers provided a period of sustained pressure and eventually found a way out when Van Zyl crossed with just five minutes remaining to seal the 33-28 win.