Stormers deliver a stirring performance to bully Blues

Flu, bah!

That was the Stormers’ message as they delivered an outstanding performance to defeat the Blues 37-20 at Newlands on Saturday afternoon.

Robbie Fleck’s troops were energetic and tough in dealing with opponents who could’ve easily exploited their dodgy preparation during the week (various players were in bed still).

Their varied strategy was perfectly executed against a New Zealand side that is simply too wayward to be a force in this tournament.

Who was the star in this match?

Given how many observers doubted the wisdom of the Stormers recruiting the embattled JJ Engelbrecht, the former Springbok centre deserves a mention for a composed, gutsy performance at right wing. He was the instigator of both EW Viljoen’s tries, made a crucial intervention from a dangerous chip close to his side’s tryline and defended stoutly. But the class of Pieter-Steph du Toit was simply too apparent to ignore. The Bok lock thrived at No 7 and was at the heart of the Stormers’ direct approach. He contributed everywhere.

Key moments and themes

• There were many similarities to the Lions-Blues battle last week in this match. The Stormers had a comfortable lead at half-time, before the New Zealanders generally dominated the second 40 minutes. However, the difference was that the Stormers simply didn’t allow themselves to become as loose and sloppy as the Lions. When they were presented with scoring opportunities, they took them pretty ruthlessly.
• The Capetonians will be pleased with their attackers purposely looking for space but that didn’t mean they didn’t lay a platform. In fact, the hosts varied their game superbly, especially in hammering the Blues in the collisions when they didn’t have the ball. There’s still value in pressuring a New Zealand side physically. It’s not all about trying to out-skill them.
• After a lot of criticism on tour, the Stormers also responded well with a robust defensive performance. There were still a few slipped tackles but their linespeed was excellent and put the wayward Blues under pressure.
• The Blues continue to infuriate. They were apathetic in the first half before waking up after the break. This time though, they simply didn’t hold onto enough passes and ran into opponents who weren’t going to be charitable. It’s a strategy that is not viable, consistency is required.
•  It was noticeable how various Stormers delivered their best performances in the Blues jerseys to date. As mentioned, Engelbrecht was superb while hooker Ramone Samuels was a revelation with his work-rate. Rookie flyhalf Damian Willemse was also an excellent controller of play.

Point scorers

Stormers – Tries: EW Viljoen (2), Raymond Rhule, Dewaldt Duvenage. Conversions: Damian Willemse (4). Penalties: Willemse (3).

Blues – Tries: Akira Ioane, Michael Collins, Rieko Ioane. Conversion: Stephen Perofeta. Penalty: Bryn Galtand.