The intense match saw both teams locked at 26-26 as the clock wound down. The Cheetahs' persistent play through multiple phases paid off with de Klerk's critical score, propelling his team to second place in the Currie Cup standings after four rounds.
The game began dominantly for the Stormers who controlled the first 10 minutes, coming close with two attempts held up over the tryline. It was Stefan Ungerer who finally broke through, scoring from close range, with Jean-Luc du Plessis nailing the conversion. However, the Cheetahs responded quickly as Prince Nkabinde scored off a ruck, though the extra points were missed.
The match's intensity escalated when Cheetahs' lock Simon Miller received a yellow card in the 32nd minute for a ruck infringement. The Stormers capitalized on the numerical advantage, with Vernon Paulo adding a try to extend their lead to 14-5 at halftime.
Restored to full strength, the Cheetahs opened the second half with renewed vigor. Captain Neels Volschenk crossed the line, and Zander du Plessis converted to narrow the gap. The Stormers extended their lead again through Wandile Mlaba's try, but he soon found himself sin-binned for a dangerous tackle.
A resultant charged-down kick saw Michael Annies score for the Cheetahs, followed by a penalty try awarded for a deliberate knock-on by Xola Nyali of the Stormers, giving the visitors a 26-21 lead. Despite Mlaba's return and subsequent try, a missed conversion left the door open for the Cheetahs' dramatic finish.
"Discipline is a massive issue," remarked the coach, alluding to the yellow cards and penalties that nearly cost his team.
The victory not only boosted the Cheetahs in the standings but also was a testament to their resilience and strategic execution under pressure. Faf de Klerk, at 34, demonstrated why he's still one of rugby's pivotal players with a Man of the Match performance that included the game-winning try.
Looking ahead to the next round, the Stormers will face the Pumas in Nelspruit, while the Cheetahs are set to battle the winless Bulls XV at Loftus.
STORMERS XXIII – Tries: Stefan Ungerer (1), Vernon Paulo (2), Wandile Mlaba (2). Conversions: Jean-Luc du Plessis (3).
CHEETAHS – Tries: Prince Nkabinde (1), Neels Volschenk (2), Michael Annies (3), penalty try (1), Faf de Klerk (1). Conversions: Zander du Plessis (2).
This match will surely be remembered for its suspenseful climax and the sheer determination displayed by both teams, highlighting yet another exhilarating chapter in the storied Currie Cup competition.
