CAPE TOWN – Pathetic, a disgrace, an embarrassment! Those were just some of the ways Stormers fans described their team on Friday after they copped yet another chastening Super Rugby defeat in New Zealand.
After losing 57-24 against the Crusaders in Christchurch last week, the Cape side went down 57-14 to the Highlanders in Dunedin on Friday.
It had all started so well in the first 10 minutes, with No 8 Nizaam Carr striding over for the opening try, having benefited from a scything break by captain Siya Kolisi.
But it went pear-shaped from there onwards as the marauding Highlanders ran in nine tries to two as the Stormers lack conviction in defence, and battled to maintain possession on attack against the 2015 champions.
And it didn’t go down well with their fans. On IOL Sport’s Facebook page, Feizal Sirkoth said: “100 points in 2 games… pathetic.”
Abu Usaamah Nurghaan Singh went on: “Not good enough for super rugby. Perhaps they should be dropped from the tournament next year with the Cheetahs. Embarrassment!”
On @IOLsport on Twitter, @pro_hunter77 stated: “I’m very concerned about test matches. Way i see it SA Rugby is screwed.”
Supporters also vented their frustration on the Stormers website. Morne Russouw said, “Should have got a def (defence) coach instead of a skills coach”.
Liz Smith commented: “An absolute disgrace. Embarrassed to be associated with WPRU after 35 years of having a season ticket. The coaching staff need to issue an apology and resign! Why is Kolbe in the side? His wing has leaked most of the tries these last 2 games. The Kings have more enterprise and guts.”
Former Stormers stalwarts Breyton Paulse and Bob Skinstad – both former teammates of current head coach Robbie Fleck – took to Twitter and admired the Highlanders’ skills.
@BreytonPaulse: “Boy oh boy,our boys are getting hammered but you gotta appreciate The Silky skills of The Landers,incredible execution!!”
@BobSkinstad: “Well made point by @sumostevenson and @KT_Ten10 agrees – No FWD skills outside of NZ? More gym time & no ball skills for forwards?”
And if the Stormers thought they have had two weeks of hell, they still have to take on defending champions the Hurricanes in Wellington next Friday at 9.35am SA time…