Lucky Sithole
That the Stormers score a try from 80 metres out within the first two minutes is special, but the way they do it is spectacular.
Great interplay between the forwards and the backs is combined with almost wizard-like handling by the backs.
But while they seem in a league of their own on attack, they are no more than ordinary in defence, allowing Edinburg to stay in the game and Edinburgh are rewarded by a forward power-try after 15 minutes.
While Edinburgh don’t have the flash, they’ve got the determination. Clearly their set piece work is more precise and while the Stormers get over the gain line often, and seemingly easily, Edinburgh calmy protect their try line.
The first half drags on with frantic, but sloppy action from both teams. When Magnus Bradbury gets a yellow card for a dangerous tackle on Evan Roos nothing changes.
Will John Dobson be able to convince his stars to settle down and play for the team in the second half? The answer will be decisive.
The try for the Stormers that comes early in the second half is a good one. The way the Stormers avoid tackles and pass effectively to set up a sparkling score for Ruhan Nel.
Then Warrick Gelant does good work to pick up a loose ball which goes forward off an Edinburgh hand and Springbok-quality Evan Roos is rewarded with a try.
With a 15 point lead the Stormers almost immediately lose concentration and allow the visitors a score under the poles – a problem the generous Stormers will have to take care of in the semis next week.
A Manie Libbok penalty gives the Stormers an 11 point lead with 10 minutes to go. An advantage they keep three minutes beyond full time as the scrum gets reset three times for no discernible reason.
It’s a victory for the Stormers and they host Ulster in the semi-final next week, but John Dobson will have to find a way to tighten up their game if they are to go ahead all the way.
Stormers 28-17 Edinburgh
Stormers: Tries: Warrick Gelant, Ruhan Nel, Evan Roos
Two conversions
Three penalties
Edinburgh: Tries: Dave Cherry, Henry Pyrgos
Two conversions
One penalty
Image source: @TheStormers
