URC Preview
Cape Town – May 9, 2025 – Saturday evening at DHL Stadium promises a collision of narratives as the DHL Stormers host Dragons RFC in a round that could shape both sides’ closing act in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship season.
Kick-off is set for 18h15 local time (17h15 UK), and while the standings may suggest a one-sided affair, the deeper stories on both benches speak of pride, transition, and the urgency of unfinished business.
For the Stormers, the script is defined by momentum, milestones, and meticulous preparation for the knockouts. For the Dragons, it’s about redemption, identity, and fighting to the last whistle in a challenging campaign.
“We Cannot Take a Backwards Step” – Dobson’s Uncompromising Demand
After a sharp performance against Benetton, Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson has made it clear that this week is about progression, not preservation.
“We were happy with the performance in our last match, but we cannot take a backwards step now,” Dobson said. “We want to keep building and adding to our game so that we are ready for whatever gets thrown at us in the knock-out phase of the competition.”
Dobson’s emphasis is as psychological as it is tactical. With just two rounds remaining before the play-offs, every match is a step on a ladder where slipping now could mean sliding too far. His team is well-positioned — but potential must still be translated into points.
Willemse at 100: A Generation’s Torchbearer
Damian Willemse Pic: Supllied
A crown jewel in the Stormers’ homegrown talent pipeline, Damian Willemse becomes the youngest player in franchise history to reach 100 appearances at the age of 27. The versatile back has evolved from prodigy to professional icon, and Dobson did not hold back in his praise.
“You won’t find a more professional player. What really stands out is Damian’s commitment and loyalty. It means so much to him to represent this team and our supporters.”
Willemse will partner Wandisile Simelane in midfield, with Ben Loader returning to the wing in a largely settled backline. Up front, Vernon Matongo earns his first start at loosehead, Joseph Dweba slots in at hooker, and promising tighthead Zachary Porthen is poised for his debut from the bench.
Brok’s Farewell and a Glimpse of the Future
Saturday also marks the farewell appearance of Brok Harris, a pillar of Stormers rugby and their most-capped player. His longevity and humility have made him a fixture in the hearts of fans and players alike.
At the other end of the spectrum, Porthen and Matongo represent the next generation of Stormers power — proof that Dobson’s project is as much about tomorrow as it is about today.
Dragons: Battle-Hardened and Motivated
While their position near the foot of the table may paint a bleak picture, Dragons RFC head coach Filo Tiatia sees these final fixtures as defining moments — not for standings, but for soul.
“We’re happy to be in South Africa, and we are under no illusion to the challenge against a very good Stormers side,” said Tiatia. “This group is not going to be the same next season, so it is important the players finish strong.”
Wales international and club captain Ben Carter returns to the second row, while fullback Huw Anderson and centre Harry Wilson slot back into the starting XV. Veteran back-rower Dan Lydiate earns his 150th URC appearance — a milestone that lends emotional gravitas to the visitors’ effort.
Tiatia acknowledges the attacking threat the Stormers bring, noting their URC ranking as second-best in terms of gain line success.
“They like to play. We’re trying to build two weeks of clear identity and strong finish. To come over here and play in Cape Town is a good challenge.”
The Dragons’ bench includes the returning Lloyd Evans, dynamic wing Ashton Hewitt, and young hooker James Benjamin — a mix of experience and energy aimed at igniting a late-game spark.
If the Welsh side can disrupt the hosts’ rhythm at source and apply pressure in transition, they may well make a contest of it. But for the Dragons, the altitude of Cape Town is more than geographic — it’s a metaphor for the gap they’ll need to close to topple a team on the rise.
Team Sheets
DHL Stormers: 15 Warrick Gelant, 14 Ben Loader, 13 Wandisile Simelane, 12 Damian Willemse, 11 Seabelo Senatla, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Stefan Ungerer, 8 Evan Roos, 7 Marcel Theunissen, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 Ruben van Heerden, 4 Salmaan Moerat (captain), 3 Sazi Sandi, 2 Joseph Dweba, 1 Vernon Matongo.
Replacements: 16 JJ Kotze, 17 Ali Vermaak, 18 Zachary Porthen, 19 Connor Evans, 20 Louw Nel, 21 Paul de Wet, 22 Dan du Plessis, 23 Suleiman Hartzenberg.
Dragons RFC: Huw Anderson; Harry Rees-Weldon, Harry Wilson, Aneurin Owen, Jared Rosser, Angus O’Brien (cc), Rhodri Williams; Rhodri Jones, Brodie Coghlan, Chris Coleman, Ben Carter (cc), Ryan Woodman, Shane Lewis-Hughes, Dan Lydiate, Aaron Wainwright
Replacements: James Benjamin, Dylan Kelleher-Griffiths, Paula Latu, Joe Davies, Barny Langton-Cryer, Dane Blacker, Lloyd Evans, Ashton Hewitt
