Stormers did their Blues homework

The Stormers need to repeat the fine performance they produced against the Blues at Newlands over the weekend on a more permanent basis, in order to become serious Super Rugby title contenders, captain Siya Kolisi believes.

The hosts were full value for their convincing 37-20 win, having led 24-3 at halftime through tries by centre EW Viljoen (2) and another by wing Raymond Rhule. “We really wanted the win,” Kolisi said. “We were under pressure. There was no way around it, we had to face it head-on.”

It was the Stormers’ first win since they beat the Jaguares at home in the opening round, which was followed by three straight defeats on tour in Australasia.

Kolisi said they had taken a good look at how the Blues took the Lions on at the collisions the previous week, and they knew they had to front up to stand any chance.

“But I don’t want us to perform only when the chips are down. We must want it all the time,” the skipper said.

“That’s what makes championship sides, being consistent, and that’s what we need.”

With the majority of the side picking up a flu virus in the week leading up to the match, Kolisi said they hardly had a full day’s training due to the disruptions.

“It was tough, but I trained the whole week so it was easier for me compared to some of the guys who had ‘flu,” he said.

“I’m so proud of the boys. We had to do without much training in the week and were left basically with just the captain’s run on the Friday for most of the boys, so I’m proud of how they stood up.”

Young flyhalf Damian Willemse was named Man-of-the-Match, not only for kicking 17 points, but for his excellent allround display, asking numerous questions of the Blues’ defence with ball in hand.

We were under pressure. There was no way around it and we had to face it head-on. Stormers captain Siya Kolisi