Pumas put Stormers to the sword with a 29:7 victory in the Currie Cup on Friday afternoon. The hosts made light work of the visitors, running in generously while keeping the visitors at bay. By then the message was clear enough for anyone watching.
Pumas had been building rhythm of late. They beat Bulls 33:31 last weekend before seeing off Boland Cavaliers 20:15 on the weekend before. Stormers meanwhile were reeling, having lost to Cheetahs 26:31 and New Zealand 21:38 in their two most recent outings.
The gap in form showed all over the park. Pumas had also found the net against Lions 29:52 and Sharks 24:26 in their previous four matches. Stormers had managed wins over Sharks 36:28 and Griquas 25:19, but those two defeats in a row were telling.
What matters now is what the scoreline means. Pumas extend their streak of positive results and move further clear in the standings. Stormers' recent run of defeats could see them drop down the table if results go against them.
And here's the thing — seven points on the board is not much to show for a full match. Stormers will need to turn things around quickly if they want to stay in contention. Pumas, by contrast, look ready to push on.