The loss was the first of the campaign for the east coast side following a pair of good wins in the opening rounds. Both sides scored a try each, however, Robert du Preez’s outfit struggled to contain the visitors’ physical onslaught in the first half. Springboks Eben Etzebeth (lock) and Pieter-Steph du Toit were the standout figures in the dominant Cape pack of forwards.
Two yellow cards were also showed to the home side, adding to their struggle to wrestle control of the ball against a Springbok laden visiting pack.
Young Springbok utility back Damian Willemse scored an intercept try in the first half to help steer the opposing side to a 13-3 halftime lead. The hosts made a bright start to the second half when Springbok midfielder Lukhanyo Am dived over soon after the restart.
The rest of encounter was a typical bruising derby affair and Siya Kolisi’s team did well to fend off a strong surge from the home team towards the end of the game.
Next weekend the DHL Stormers will have a bye and the Cell C Sharks travel to Pretoria for their clash with the Vodacom Bulls in the capital.
Scorers:
Cell C Sharks (3) 11 - Try: Lukhanyo Am; Penalties: Robert du Preez (2).
DHL Stormers (13) 16 - Try: Damian Willemse; Conversion: SP Marais; Penalties: Marais (3).
