The DHL Stormers continued their outstanding start to the Vodacom United Rugby Championship season with a resounding 34–0 win over the Scarlets in Llanelli on Friday night. The Cape side completely outclassed their Welsh opponents to notch up their second whitewash in three matches.
After often being slow starters in past seasons, the Stormers have turned the tables this year, dropping just one point from a possible 15 after three rounds. Their dominance was evident from the outset, controlling territory, possession, and tempo. A 17–0 halftime lead could easily have been greater, with the Scarlets conceding a staggering 15 penalties in the first 40 minutes.
Defence coach Norman Laker’s system shone again, suffocating the Scarlets’ attack through relentless line-speed and pressure. With just 10 points conceded all season, the Stormers’ defensive wall has been as impressive as their attacking flair.
Evan Roos opened the scoring in the 11th minute and was later named Man of the Match, while tries from Paul de Villiers, Ruben van Heerden, and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu ensured a bonus-point win. Substitute Imad Khan added the fifth try late in the game. Damian Willemse and Feinberg-Mngomezulu shared the kicking duties, with Willemse converting one from the tee.
The only concern for the Stormers was veteran Deon Fourie leaving the field injured, casting some doubt over his availability for the next leg of their European tour.
With 95 points scored and just 10 conceded in three matches, the Stormers are proving to be one of the most balanced teams in the competition. On current form, their upcoming fixtures against Benetton and Zebre in Italy look promising.
Final Score: Stormers 34 – Scarlets 0.
Pic Credit – BBC Sport
