The Stormers’ thrilling draw against Ulster delivered three log points but exposed costly flaws at a crucial stage of the Vodacom URC season, writes MARK KEOHANE.
Writing for the Sunday Times, Keohane says the 38-38 result in Ulster strengthened the Stormers’ top-two push, but the failure to secure a bonus-point win leaves them vulnerable heading into the final round.
The Stormers scored five tries and fought back with a last-minute penalty try, yet the context stings.
“One never dismisses three league points away from home, but those three points the Stormers left Belfast with will be bitter-sweet,” writes Keohane.
A bonus-point victory would have put them in control of their destiny for a first-place finish. Instead, they now head to Cardiff needing a result while relying on others.
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The match highlighted a familiar contradiction. The Stormers attacked with ambition and invention, but their discipline and decision-making undermined their dominance, especially with Ulster reduced to 14 men for 20 minutes.
“Two potential tries were blown a metre from Ulster’s tryline because of ill-discipline, writes Keohane. “Individuals let themselves and the team down in crucial moments through ill-judgement, a refusal to listen to the referee’s constant cautions and a disregard for discipline.”
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The URC standings remain tight. A win against Cardiff could secure second place, while defeat could see them slide to fifth. The margin for error is gone.
For Keohane, the frustration is clear. The Stormers continue to balance moments of brilliance with costly lapses – and in a race this tight, that inconsistency could define their season.
Photo: Stormers/Instagram
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