'We're not losing focus now': Nel rallies Stormers ahead of test

AT THE start of the season, the Stormers' main objective was to go five-fromfive in the opening block of United Rugby Championship (URC) matches.

- LEIGHTON KOOPMAN

They are now on the cusp of achieving that goal, with Benetton standing in their way this evening in Treviso (6.30pm kickoff).

After sweeping all their opponents so far in the tournament, the Cape side have the Italian outfit in their sights as they look to make this their most successful tour to date in the competition. While a bonus-point victory would secure 15 points from three away games, their only focus is to get the win.

That much is clear from the eight changes director of rugby John Dobson has made for the clash at Stadio Monigo.

An entirely new tight five will take centre stage in the scrums and physical battle, while rookie flyhalf Jurie Matthee steps into a jersey that sparked the Stormers' attack when Bok playmaker Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu wore it for the last two matches. Feinberg-Mngomezulu will enjoy a rest before joining the Springboks for the November tour.

Captain Ruhan Nel emphasised that the team has one goal in mind - to secure their fifth victory and remain unbeaten heading into the break.