The Stormers will require an 80-minute performance on Saturday against the Bulls to stand any chance of bagging a victory in Pretoria.
But, key individuals must spark the Cape side with their attack and defence to lead them to success as they aim for a turnaround in the United Rugby Championship (URC).
Independent Media looked at five players that could play a key role for the visitors at Loftus Versfeld (5pm start).
Warrick Gelant
The former Bull loves a match against his ex-teammates. He almost operated the Stormers’ backline attack single-handedly in the first North vs South duel in Cape Town.
Gelant’s ingenuity and ability to pull off some magic from almost nothing when he is attacking should get his side running with the ball. He will be tested under the high balls by the Bulls, and must ensure he comes out tops every time to keep his team on the front foot.
A third straight Fans' Man of the Match award for @WarrickGelant 👏 pic.twitter.com/1iH5PekTjh
— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) February 17, 2025
Salmaan Moerat
The Stormers captain must pitch up with his physicality in attack and defence, especially from the onset. Moerat’s task will be to set the tone with his tackles if the Bulls enjoy early possession.
But, most importantly, his decision-making on the field will have to be spot-on when the team is within striking distance for points. Every single point will count on Saturday, and they must make the right decisions to take it when presented with opportunities.
Ruben van Heerden
The lock is returning to his former hunting ground, and knows all too well the pressure, especially at set-piece time, that awaits him and the rest of the forwards.
Van Heerden must tame the lineout jumpers of the Bulls to provide secure possession for the scrumhalf, and then his competing against the throw-ins will be crucial. Overlooked for the Bok alignment camp, he can further state his case with a strong performance.
Stefan Ungerer
Control the pace of the game when the Stormers are on the attack. That will probably be the biggest task of halfback Ungerer should he start for a second time against the Bulls.
He varied his play quite well in Cape Town a few weeks ago, and provided something different as the starting No 9. With some accurate box-kicks, he can put the Bulls back-three under pressure, but when the opportunity is on, he must get the backline running.
Jurie Matthee
As the only fit and firing flyhalf in the Cape, Matthee will be under pressure to get the attack of the Stormers running. But, he must also do better with his kicking at goal.
He missed three kicks – two of which he normally would slot – to spill some valuable points that could’ve helped his side to a win. The ball will travel at Loftus, so if his boot is dialled in and they get penalties within striking distance, the Cape side could benefit massively off the tee.