Five key areas Stormers had to address before battling Benetton

THE Stormers must tighten up a few areas of their gameplay if they want to beat Benetton in their United Rugby Championship (URC) clash on Saturday in Cape Town as they continue pushing for a favourable knockout spot.

- LEIGHTON KOΟΡΜΑΝ

Despite beating Connacht, certain parts of their game did not function well, and the Italians will look to exploit it even further when the duel kicks off (6.15pm) in the DHL Stadium.

Independent Newspapers looks at five key areas the Cape side would've worked on ahead of this watershed duel.

Defence

It has long been a pillar of the Stormers' gameplan, but teams have found it too easy to circumvent their rush defence. Director of rugby John Dobson could not put his finger on the problem and if it's a system or player error.

What he does know is that they will have to be better, especially out wide, to keep the dangerous attack of Benetton in check. Their tackle fight and double hits have been impressive in the past and they must get that right as well.

Leaving space for the Italians to attack will get them into trouble come Saturday.

Rucking