Stormers Eye Turnaround in URC Season with Injury Boost
The DHL Stormers, currently at the bottom of the United Rugby Championship (URC) table, are pinning their hopes on a turnaround in fortunes as they welcome back four Springboks ahead of a crucial double header of derbies against the Lions and Sharks. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, a prop recalled to the team, is eager to make a positive impact, while teammate Salmaan Moerat looks to notch his 50th appearance for the team on Saturday.
The return of Feinberg-Mngomezulu, along with props Ben-Jason Dixon, Frans Malherbe, and flyhalf Deon Fourie, has injected new energy into the team, with Moerat hailing the experience and insight brought by these players as invaluable. Feinberg-Mngomezulu, in particular, is looking to bring his skills to the table and help the Stormers move up the league table. Despite the team's struggles, Moerat remains optimistic, citing the team's mobility advantage and the potential for a fast-paced game against the Lions.
The Stormers face a tough battle against the Lions, who have been "consistently good" in recent seasons, but Moerat is excited about the challenge ahead. The team is aware of the Lions' strong scrum and mobile pack, but Moerat believes that the Stormers can capitalise on their own strengths and secure a win. The triumph over Lions will be a chance to shift the team's fortunes, and the players are eager to secure a win and prove their potential.
The URC season has seen some mixed results for South African franchises so far, with the Emirates Lions being the only team to register a win in European competitions over the weekend. The Toyota Cheetahs and Hollywoodbets Sharks face a tough road ahead, while the Vodacom Bulls and DHL Stormers look to bounce back from their defeats. Meanwhile, the Springboks wrapped up their Castle Lager Outgoing Tour with a clean sweep of victories, while the Springbok Sevens team won the HSBC SVNS Cape Town, marking a promising start to the season for South African rugby.
The Stormers' match against the Lions will be a crucial test of the team's mettle, but with the return of experienced players like Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Malherbe, the team is feeling optimistic about their chances. The match is set to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams keen to secure a win and boost their URC campaign. As the season enters a critical phase, the Stormers will be hoping to convert their momentum into results and push up the league table.