Stormers keep feet on the ground after Leinster rout in URC opener

The Stormers won’t get too carried away with their statement opening win over defending champions Leinster in the United Rugby Championship (URC).

After turning on the magic in the second half in Cape Town on Friday evening, the home side cruised to a commanding 35-0 victory, making a statement of intent early on. However, they know that following up this strong start will be crucial when they take on the Ospreys in round two.

They will enjoy their doughnuts on Monday — a treat sponsored by defence coach Norman Laker whenever they keep a team scoreless — but they are just as focused on putting in the hard work needed to build on the performance.

While the Ospreys were floored by the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld, they will arrive at DHL Stadium knowing they have beaten the Cape side there before.

That’s why head coach John Dobson wants to see his team back up their first-round victory with another clinical display. His team currently tops the standings with five points and will be desperate to secure a second straight win before heading on tour.

The Stormers have been struggling in their early season tours, so leaving for Europe with two victories and a possible full house of 10 points could be a major boost.

 “Our record against the Ospreys is pretty poor,” Dobson admitted.

“The last three games read loss, loss, draw. That defeat at home last season goes down as one of our lowest points. People were not happy with us. We will be up for this game, though.

“We didn’t know where the team was before the Leinster game, and we didn’t expect that result. But there wasn’t one moment in the match where I felt we were lucky or there was a flash or a crazy play by Sacha (Feinberg-Mngomezulu), Manie (Libbok), or Warrick (Gelant). The win was built on intensity and qualities we can back up week after week.”

Captain on the day, Ruhan Nel, praised the collective effort and said the squad will definitely enjoy their donuts.

He also felt comfortable in his first outing as skipper, with senior players such as tighthead Neethling Fouché, lock JD Schickerling, and centre partner Dan du Plessis alongside him.

Nel played the full 80 minutes after missing much of last season through serious injury.

“I’m pretty happy we got through game one and we’ll be taking things week by week. Personally, I’m hoping to build momentum, but I also want to see that for the squad.”