Arabic version: ستورمرز يرهق كوناخت في افتتاح بطولة URC

According to BBC News, Connacht opened their United Rugby Championship season with a 22-15 home defeat to the Stormers at Dexcom Stadium in Galway.

The Stormers made the faster start. Ruhan Nel was denied a sixth-minute try by Mack Hansen’s last-ditch tackle before Jurie Matthee opened the scoring with a penalty. Warrick Gelant then chased a well-weighted kick to score the first try, with Matthee converting.

Connacht responded late in the first half. Hansen, returning after a lengthy spell out with a foot injury, grounded the ball to bring the hosts closer. Josh Ioane then finished a sweeping move following an Eoin de Buitlear turnover, sending Connacht into half-time ahead.

Sam Gilbert prevented Seabelo Senatla from scoring early in the second half, but the Stormers steadily took control. Sazi Sandi crossed after a multi-phase attack to put the visitors back in front with 25 minutes remaining.

Late tries from Vernon Paulo and Ezekiel Ngobeni secured the Stormers’ victory as Connacht tired. Yaqeen Ahmed’s conversion left the South African side seven points clear at the final whistle.