THE Stormers elevated their game with a more refined second-half display, achieving a significant 33-7 victory at home against Ulster during their round-five United Rugby Championship match at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday.

This victory allowed the Kapenaars to continue their solid home performance in the initial phase of the cross-hemisphere competition, though they were likely not pleased with their inconsistent first-half showing. However, their second-half improvement led to an important bonus-point win.

Ulster opened the scoring with David McCann’s powerful try, giving them a 7-0 advantage which they maintained until just seven minutes before halftime, when JD Schickerling managed to cross the try line next to the posts, leveling the score for the home side.

Shortly after the break, Springbok flank Paul de Villiers capitalized on a charged-down kick to score an opportunistic try, allowing the Stormers to edge into a 12-7 lead at halftime.

Five minutes into the second half, Evan Roos showcased his agility with a brilliant solo try, sprinting 60m to extend the home team’s lead to 19-7 as they carried on their momentum.

Junior Bok flyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed, recently added to the Bok squad for their Nations Championship tour, displayed exceptional skill and poise, executing a precise cross-kick to find captain Ruhan Nel out wide.

The seasoned midfielder exhibited impressive aerial abilities to secure the ball under pressure and crossed for the hosts’ fourth try of the game.

Ahmed then showcased his strength and timing, running a sharp, flat line to receive a pass from former Junior Bok Haashim Pead, diving over the try line as the Stormers celebrated another crucial home victory.

Stormers 33 (12) – Tries: JD Schickerling, Paul de Villiers, Evan Roos, Ruhan Nel, Yaqeen Ahmed. Conversions: Ahmed (4)

Ulster 7 (7) – Try: Dave McCann. Conversion: Jack Murphy