The Stormers Aim to Secure Fourth Place with a Strong Performance Against the Dragons
As the Stormers gear up to face the Dragons from Wales in a crucial United Rugby Championship match in Cape Town, all eyes will be on Damian Willemse as he celebrates his 100th game for the team. The two-time World Cup winner will don the number 12 jersey, making him the youngest player to reach this milestone at just 27 years old. The match, scheduled for Saturday at 6.15pm, promises to be a memorable one for both Willemse and the Stormers fans.
Willemse will be joined by a dynamic back division featuring Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu at flyhalf, Wandisile Simelane at 13, Seabelo Senatla and Ben Loader on the wings, and Warrick Gelant at fullback. In the forward pack, loosehead prop Vernon Matongo earns his first start alongside Springbok hooker Joseph Dweba, with promising tighthead Zachary Porthen set to make his debut from the bench.
Farewell to Brok Harris
The match will also serve as a farewell to the legendary Brok Harris, who has decided to retire at the age of 40. Stormers coach John Dobson expressed his gratitude for the immense contributions of both Willemse and Harris to the team.
“Damian and Brok have been exemplary in embodying the spirit of the Stormers, each in their unique way. Their dedication and passion for the team have left a lasting impact, and it is only fitting to honor them on this special occasion,” Dobson remarked.
Dobson praised Willemse’s exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to the team, highlighting his invaluable presence on and off the field. The Stormers are determined to secure a victory against the struggling Dragons, who sit at the bottom of the URC table with just one win in 16 matches. A win will propel the Stormers higher up the standings as they chase a coveted fourth-place finish.
Stormers Lineup: Warrick Gelant, Ben Loader, Wandisile Simelane, Damian Willemse, Seabelo Senatla, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Stefan Ungerer, Evan Roos, Marcel Theunissen, Paul de Villiers, Ruben van Heerden, Salmaan Moerat (capt), Sazi Sandi, Joseph Dweba, Vernon Matongo. Bench: JJ Kotze, Ali Vermaak, Zachary Porthen, Connor Evans, Louw Nel, Paul de Wet, Dan du Plessis, Suleiman Hartzenberg.
