The Stormers launched their Investec Champions Cup campaign in ruthless fashion, delivering a seven-try 49-12 rout over the Bristol Bears at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
Before kick-off, both teams and the crowd observed an emotional moment of silence in memory of Lions lock Hyron Andrews, who tragically passed away in France on Friday.
When the action commenced, the Capetonians overcame an early Bristol press to put on a clinical masterclass defined by scrum dominance, sharp red-zone execution, and near-flawless place-kicking by Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who converted seven of his eight attempts.
Match Summary & Key Highlights
- First-Half Dominance: Despite early pressure from the visitors, Seabelo Senatla sparked the hosts with a brilliant solo turnover and subsequent opening touchdown. Leolin Zas soon added a second following relentless pressure from the Stormers’ pack.
- Red Card Drama: The Capetonians faced a major setback when hooker JJ Kotzé received a straight red card for a high tackle. However, the 14-man home side maintained their composure and held firm until halftime.
- Second-Half Blitz: Bristol pulled a try back through Sol Moody, but the Stormers took complete control. Jonny Roche crossed the line to secure the crucial bonus-point try, before late scores from Warrick Gelant, André-Hugo Venter, and a second for Zas sealed a comprehensive 37-point victory.
