The big North-South Derby kicked off in front of a record 41,205 strong crowd at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday evening, the 18th of February. 

In a tough game which displayed an early attack and dominance by the Bulls, the Stormers needed to apply resilience and tenacity to push through for the win. Within the first 6 minutes of the game a penalty was awarded to the Bulls which saw Chris Smith clock numbers to the scoreboard first for their side.

Strong defence from the Stormers held the Bulls at bay and prevented them from a try right through the first half. Although the Bulls’ possession was rewarded with four penalties, it was the visitors who took the opportunity as soon as they could break the Bulls defence. 

The 27th minute displayed great team work from Herschel Jantjies and Marcel Theunissen making use of their space and gaining the first try of the game. Flyhalf Manie Libbok kicked the conversion and brought the Stormers one point ahead of the Bulls by the end of the first half. 

The second half saw the Stormers come back fighting by extending their lead to 20-12 early on the clock. Loose forward Junior Pokomela came on and secured a try that was again converted by Libbok to reach the 20 mark. 

Keeping up with the pace, the Bulls fought to close the gap as returning winger, Sbu Nkosi, touched down in the 63rd minute despite the pressure exerted by fullback David Kriel being sent off for a deliberate knock-on. Morné Steyn then converted, bringing the score to a close 20-19. 

Unfortunately for the home team, the comeback was not enough as Libbok secured a drop kick goal in the last 10 minutes of the game, extending the Stormer’s narrow lead to 23. 

With the pressure from Kriel having been on the bench and the Stormers taking the lead, the pressure was on the hosts to regain territory but the visitors held them off by taking possession and finishing strong.

The Stormers are currently in 2nd on the log with 54 points while the Bulls are in 6th with 41 points. The Stormers will take on the Sharks on the 4th of March while the Bulls will be in action against the Lions.

Try Scorers:

Vodacom Bulls 

Tries: Sbu Nkosi.

Conversion: Morne Steyn

Penalties: Chris Smith (4)

DHL Stormers

Tries: Marcel Theunissen, Junior Pokomela

Conversion: Manie Libbok (2)

Penalties: Manie Libbok (3)

Kayla Barker/OFM Sport