Ospreys Stage Dramatic Comeback Victory Against Stormers

In an exciting showdown in Bridgend, the Ospreys delivered a stunning comeback to defeat the DHL Stormers 37-24, marking a challenging start for the Stormers in their Vodacom United Rugby Championship campaign. Ospreys’ victory was highlighted by a last-minute penalty try from a driving maul, solidifying a bonus-point win.

The Stormers had initially taken control of the match, racing to a 13-3 lead. This early advantage was courtesy of a try by Leolin Zas and two penalties by Jurie Matthee. Nevertheless, the Ospreys demonstrated resilience and strategic play to turn the tide in their favor, aided by the effective goal-kicking performance of Dan Edwards, who contributed 15 points.

Despite the early dominance by the Stormers, which included a drop goal by Damian Willemse and a late try by JD Schickerling, the Ospreys proved unyielding. Edwards played a crucial role in maintaining the pressure, successfully executing three conversions, two penalties, and a drop goal during the match.

Morgan Williams was a standout player, celebrating his 100th appearance for the Ospreys. He was instrumental in propelling the momentum that resulted in one of their pivotal tries. The Ospreys capitalized on a forward momentum, with Edwards, bolstered by his teammates’ support, clinching key points that undermined the Stormers’ efforts to secure victory.

The match dynamic was further spiced up by the tactical exchanges between Matthee and Edwards, with both players exchanging and scoring penalties in the first half. However, the second half saw Ospreys taking the lead for the first time following a relentless offensive stretch, ending Stormers’ hopes despite a solid drop goal by Willemse.

Stormers will hope to recover in their next match, as they face Zebre in Italy, following the latter’s unexpected triumph over the 2023 champions Munster. This would serve as an opportunity for the Stormers to secure their first win of the 2024-25 season.