Stormers director of rugby John Dobson praised his side’s narrow 13–8 victory over the. Bulls as a powerful reminder of why high-intensity local derbies remain so valuable to South African rugby. In front of the biggest United Rugby World Cup 2027 Contest crowd of the season. The Stormers once again showed their ability to grind out results underweight, extending their perfect league record.
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Besides reinforcing their status as the team to beat. A capacity crowd of 53,862 packed into Cape Town Stadium to watch a bruising, old-fashioned contest between two traditional rivals. It was not a game built on flair or free-flowing attack. But rather one decided by physical dominance, set-piece accuracy, and mental toughness. The Stormers made it eight wins from eight in the URC.
Besides ten straight victories across all competitions, they were made to work until the final moments to secure it. The decisive moment came just 90 seconds from full-time. Replacement prop Ntuthuko Mchunu powered over from a driving lineout maul. Finally breaking the Bulls’ resistance and sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
It was a fitting finish to a contest that had been defined by collisions, discipline, and patience. For Dobson, it was another reason to celebrate in a remarkable season that has also seen him commit his future to the franchise with a four-year contract extension. Reflecting on the match, Dobson described the derby as tough and amazing, highlighting the sheer intensity of the battle across the park.
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Rugby World Cup: Nortje Backs Bulls to Bounce Back
He felt the quality of the contest underlined why South African teams continue to produce world-class players and remain successful at the Test level. According to Dobson, Rugby World Cup matches like these prepare players for the demands of international rugby, where scrums, lineouts, mauls, and breakdowns are fiercely contested, and margins are razor-thin.
He pointed out that even from inside the insulated coaching box, the physicality of the collisions could be heard, a sign of just how uncompromising the encounter had been. Facing a Bulls side packed with Springboks and driven by desperation after a difficult run of results, Rugby World Cup, Dobson believed the Stormers had earned a significant victory. In his view.
Overcoming such opposition only strengthens South African rugby as a whole. From the Bulls’ perspective, captain Ruan Nortje acknowledged the disappointment of another defeat but felt the match remained compelling until the end. He admitted that while the game lacked expansive running rugby, both teams stayed in the fight for the full 80 minutes.
Nortje credited the Stormers for taking their chance late on, noting that championship teams are often defined by their ability to finish decisive moments. The Bulls are now suffering a sixth straight loss across all competitions and sitting 11th on the URC table.
Stay under increasing pressure. However, Nortje insisted there is still belief within the squad. Drawing on experience, he expressed confidence that the team can pull itself out of the slump, emphasising that the group has faced similar challenges before and responded positively.
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Rugby World Cup Final: Building Depth Through Transition
Away from the URC, the wider rugby scenery continues to shift, chiefly with constant player drive amid rugby league and rugby union. The Sydney Roosters, for example, have faced weighty trouble in their outside backs due to a steady talent drain to the 15-man code. High-profile names such as Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii and Sitili Tupouniua have loyal to the Rugby World Cup Final union ahead of the 2025 season.
Former union convert Mark Nawaqanitawase has announced his return to pursue Rugby World Cup Final ambitions in 2027. Despite these departures, there remains optimism within the Roosters camp that some of these stars could eventually return to the NRL. Reports suggest the club’s leadership, including head coach Trent Robinson.
Remains deliberately maintaining flexibility in the salary cap to accommodate possible comebacks in the coming years. The potential retirement of long-serving captain James Tedesco could further ease financial pressure and open opportunities in key positions, including fullback. There is also uncertainty surrounding veteran winger Daniel Tupou, who may retire after the 2026 or 2027 season.
Yet the Roosters are not without hope for the future. Emerging talents such as Robert Toia, now a State of Origin representative for Queensland, and the returning Billy Smith provide encouraging depth. With Toia signed through to 2029 and the addition of Reuben Garrick from 2027, the club believes it has the foundations to remain competitive despite ongoing challenges.
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