Super Rugby Qualifiers: Stormers v Chiefs

Stormers v Chiefs
Sunday 1:00am at DHL Newlands

The Chiefs have their work cut out for them as they travel to Cape town to face a dangerous Stormers outfit.

Selection news

The Stormers have made two changes for their showdown with the Chiefs. In the backline, SP Marais has shaken off a knee injury to start at fullback which pushes Dillyn Leyds to wing. While up front, Rynhardt Elstadt returns to the back-row with Sikhumbuzo Notshe shuffling back to the bench.

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie has brought in a host of experience for the do or die clash. Stephen Donald has received the nod to replace the injured Charlie Ngatai at inside centre in the only change to the Chiefs backline that defeated the Brumbies. But there are a couple huge inclusions in the pack with All Blacks Sam Cane and Brodie Retallick both restored to the starting side after being rested last week. There is also a start for veteran Liam Messam at No.6.

Last time they met

8th Apr 2017: Stormers 34 -Chiefs 26

Stats that matter

This time last year, the Chiefs thrashed the Stormers 60-21 when they met in last season’s quarter-finals.

Key matchup

Eben Etzebeth vs Brodie Retalick: A mouth watering match up as two of the worlds best locks go head to head on Sunday morning. The big men will be looking to lead from the front and Retallick will be aware that the Chiefs lineout will have to be on point to defuse the Stormers strong set piece. Both players will be looking to get a physiological edge over the other, ahead of the rugby championship next month.

The form

The Chiefs would have preferred to be heading to Canberra this weekend, however a Hurricanes win meant they finished 3rd in the kiwi conference and have to travel to Cape town. They never really hit their straps against a second string Brumbies side last week but still managed a 28-10 victory. They have only lost 3 games this season, however one of them was at the hands of the Stormers in Cape Town. The Stormers have scored plenty of points this season, notching up 133 points in their last 3 games. They haven’t found the consistency they would have liked but will take a lot of confidence from their win over the Chiefs earlier in the season.

How it’s shaping up

The Chiefs will have to face a difficult run home if they are to take out the title this season. The Stormers prove a tough first obstacle but the Wolf thinks they have the side to do it. The return of their big name players will get them over the line in a tight one.

Final thoughts

Chiefs by 1

Best bet: Chiefs WIN ($1.57)
Value bet: Stormers score first and lose ($3.30)