De Villiers’ contribution to Stormers’ defensive prowess

THE Stormers boast the meanest defence in the United Rugby Championship after the first three rounds of league action.

- JOHN GOLIATH

They managed to keep defending champions Leinster scoreless in their opening game and repeated the feat in last weekend's match against the Scarlets in Wales.

The only points they have conceded so far this season came in their second match against the Ospreys, when they recorded a 26-10 victory at home at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town.

The Stormers pride themselves on big hits and lightning speed off the line, smashing opposition ball carriers with force. But much of their defensive success starts before they rush off the line — with the unseen graft at the breakdown.

Their work at the defensive ruck has been central to their success, with openside flank Paul de Villiers excelling in his efforts to slow opposition ball or win turnovers.