Watch VideoGAME DAY | Emotion and pressure collide as Stormers host Connacht in crucial URC clash

Stormers eighthman Evan Roos and his powerful ball carries will be important when they face Connacht on Saturday afternoon in Cape Town in an important URC clash The Stormers know exactly how tricky Connacht can be, and with Leinster breathing down their necks on the United Rugby Championship (URC) table, Saturday’s clash at the DHL Stadium is shaping up to be a high-stakes affair. It will be an emotional afternoon in the Cape (1.45pm kick-off) as the inaugural URC champions bid farewell to legendary team manager Chippie Solomon, who passed away last Saturday, while veteran Scarra Ntubeni is set to make his final appearance for the franchise. Both have played a huge role in the success of the Stormers and Western Province, on and off the field, and the team will be eager to deliver a fitting tribute.

That said, they are well aware of the dangers of letting emotion take over, or of underestimating Connacht. The Irish side is fighting to stay alive in the URC and must win their remaining matches to keep their playoff hopes intact. The Stormers, meanwhile, are under pressure from Leinster and will need a bonus-point win to hold on to second place.

Last year’s meeting between the sides was a spectacle. The Stormers scored three tries inside the opening 25 minutes, only for Connacht to claw their way back. The game hung in the balance until the final minute, with the hosts just managing to see it out.