Stormers eyeing victory over Sharks to cap off excellent finish to the year

The Capetonians endured a slow start to the season as they struggled up north without their Springbok Rugby World Cup winners, losing four from four during that period.

However, since the stars returned the Stormers have begun to find their feet with wins over Zebre, La Rochelle and the Bulls in December whilst an inexperienced side almost stole a victory away to Leicester Tigers.

There is a sense that the season is starting to get back on track and should the side continue their dominance over their South African rivals it could mean the Cape team will head into 2024 with huge momentum.

Veteran front-row Brok Harris feels December has been crucial for the Stormers but knows the Sharks are still a hurdle.

"December is turning out to be a good one," Harris said. "After sending a youngish team to Leicester Tigers, and playing as well as we did, I think we were unlucky to not get the result. That set the tone for the game against La Rochelle.

"Playing the champions of Europe we knew we needed to step up our game, and so we did. This in turn gave us our momentum for the Bulls, and the Sharks to come."

Typically in the past, the December festive period was a time without rugby in South Africa but fans seem to be warming up to the idea with 40,000 people flocking into Cape Town Stadium for the North-South derby against the Bulls.

"It's not something that our South African teams are used to yet, it's not always easy to say no to the extra helping of malva pudding, but this is where the game is won, off the field," Harris said.

"I think this is still a major mind shift that most of the players need to make. It is difficult to work while everyone is on holiday, but despite this our spirits are high and we have our Faithful supporting us."

Harris operates almost as a player-coach with his wealth of experience vital for the squad although he admits the young players are still teaching him a great deal.

"As much as I am a mentor for a few of the youngsters, I still learn a lot from their take on the game, and I feed off their energy. They definitely keep me young and are partly responsible for my grey hair," he said.

"Nearing the end of my career, it is a privilege to be part of the Stormers and Western Province set up and I am savouring each moment on and off the field. I will never get tired of wearing the Stormers jersey."

As an expert of all things front-row Harris is excited about the future of the Stormers props, with new signings Sti Sithole and Lizo Gqoboka adding experience alongside upcoming stars Kwenzo Blose and Lee-Marvin Mazibuko.

"Sti and Lizo contribute both on and off the field through their input and their experience, and really bought into our systems and processes," Harris said. "The growth that Kwenzo and Lee have shown in the last couple of months is promising, and it adds depth to the front row.

"Credit must go to our coaching staff willing to give youngsters the opportunity to play at the highest level these last two seasons. We have a few injuries at the moment, but thankfully have the depth in the squad to deal with it.

"We need this depth to remain competitive in both URC and Champions Cup," Harris added. "As for this weekend, I feel that we've put in a lot of hard work as a pack, and the game against the Sharks will be another test of our strength."

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