The Stormers, South Africa’s most fancied franchise in this season’s Super Rugby competition, sent a strong message with their opening game of the season. They thumped the Hurricanes 27-0 on Saturday afternoon.
Tries from Sergeal Petersen, Steven Kitshoff, Herschel Jantjies and Damian Willemse sealed the rout, but there are some concerns over captain Siya Kolisi’s knee. The World Cup winner limped off the field in the first half with a knee injury.
Nevertheless, the Stormers put on a show, despite the Canes’ best attempts to make the match a big old scrap.
In pictures: Stormers thump the Hurricanes
Picture: Seabelo Senatla of the Stormers helps Hurricanes players back to their feet after Steven Kitshoff’s try. Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
Line breaks from Siya Kolisi and Herschel Jantjies from the scrum led to the latter using a penalty advantage to pop a kick over to Sergeal Petersen waiting to finish. Steven Kitshoff powered through three would-be tacklers to dot over for the Stormers’ second try.
Picture: Siya Kolisi leads the Stormers onto the field at Newlands for their first 2020 Super Rugby match. Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
After a rapturous welcome from the Newlands faithful, Siya Kolisi had to leave the field early with a knee injury.
Picture: Godlen Masimla of the Stormers in action against the Hurricanes. Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
Picture: Ruhan Nel and Bongi Mbonambi of the Stormers celebrate with Herschel Jantjies. Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
But Herschel Jantjies added the third, pinching a loose ball and whizzing through like a flash to dot down under the posts.
Picture: Jordie Barrett attempts to tackle Herschel Jantjies during the 2020 Super Rugby match between the Stormers and Hurricanes at Newlands. Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
Picture: Damian Willemse of the Stormers breaks for the tryline during the Stormers match against the Hurricanes during the 2020 Super Rugby season. Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
Damian Willemse wrapped it up with an intercept and a 95m run to put the jam on the doughnut.
