The Stormers struggle in the second half against Harlequins in Champions Cup clash
The Stormers started off strong in their Champions Cup clash against Harlequins at Twickenham Stoop in London, taking an early lead with penalties from flyhalf Jurie Matthee. However, their performance unraveled in the second half, with ill-discipline leading to three yellow cards and allowing Harlequins to dominate.
Harlequins captain Alex Dombrandt put on a stellar performance, scoring a hattrick and assisting in tries, while left wing Cadan Murley also scored three times during the match.
Solid start for the Stormers
Despite a solid start and early lead for the Stormers, Harlequins quickly turned the tables with a try from Murley in the 12th minute. The hosts continued to build on their lead with a try from scrumhalf Danny Care and another from Dombrandt, putting them ahead 19-6 at halftime.
Harlequins extended their lead in the second half with a penalty from Marcus Smith and a drop goal from Matthee. The Stormers’ woes continued as scrumhalf Stefan Ungerer received a yellow card for a deliberate knock on, giving Harlequins the opportunity to capitalize on the man advantage.
Man advantage leads to domination
With Ungerer in the sin bin, Harlequins scored two quick tries through Dombrandt to complete his hattrick. The Stormers’ troubles worsened as Seabelo Senatla and Angelo Davids were also shown yellow cards, allowing Harlequins to run riot with a man advantage.
Harlequins continued to pile on the points with tries from Murley and replacement hooker Sam Riley. The Stormers managed to score a consolation try through debutant JC Mars, but it was not enough to overcome the dominant performance from Harlequins.
Final score and scorers
Harlequins: Tries – Cadan Murley (3), Danny Care, Alex Dombrandt (3), Sam Riley; Conversions – Marcus Smith (3), Jarrod Evans (2); Penalty – Smith
Stormers: Try – JC Mars; Conversion – Jurie Mathee; Penalties – Mathee (2); Drop Goal – Mathee
Overall, the Stormers’ decent first half showing was overshadowed by their second half collapse, as Harlequins secured a convincing 53-16 victory.
