Stormers win as Connacht falter on opening night
The Stormers defeated Connacht in the opening match of the United Rugby Championship at Dexcom Stadium. Despite a strong first-half effort from the hosts, the South African side's physical dominance secured the win.
Why it matters
This match marks the beginning of the new United Rugby Championship season, a major event in international club rugby.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Connacht's United Rugby Championship season started with a loss at home to the Stormers
Tries: Hansen, Ioane Cons: Gilbert Pens: Gilbert
Tries: Gelant, Sandi, Paulo, Ngobeni Cons: Matthee 2, Ahmed Pens: Matthee
Connacht fell to an opening-night defeat in the United Rugby Championship at Dexcom Stadium in Galway as the Stormers' power wore them down in the second half.
After a slow start to the opening 40 minutes, two quick-fire tries for the hosts turned the game on its head in the dying minutes of the first half.
However, a brilliant display of strength and game management from the Stormers meant that the points would be leaving with the South Africans after the first game of the new season.
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