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Cape Town - When the Stormers came unstuck at home against the Sharks two weekends ago, things were not looking great for coach Robbie Fleck and his charges.
A fixture against the tournament favourites awaited, and Fleck had tasted defeat for the first time in a match that means more to supporters than most.
But now, following Saturday's comprehensive 31-11 win over the Brumbies at Newlands, there is a renewed optimism in Cape Town.
The Stormers may not have played the enterprising, expansive game of rugby that they are seeking to implement this season, but they were tactically better than their Australian opposition throughout the match.
It was a result that, according to Fleck, means a lot given that this week sees the Stormers travel to Buenos Aires for a date with the Jaguares.
"It’s massively important," Fleck said of the Brumbies win.
"We are playing against a quality team. They weren’t that good in South Africa but certainly they will be a different prospect at home.
"That was the daunting task going into this week … knowing that at the back end of the Brumbies you’re facing the Jaguares."
Fleck says that Saturday's win was not about making a statement.
"It’s about what is happening inside (the squad). I think there is a bit of belief now," said Fleck.
"That was a disappointing loss last weekend (against the Sharks). There is now belief that we’re on the right track and we’re going to keep working hard.
"We’re still having soft moments in our game … we can be a little more clinical as we go along."
The Stormers are set to depart for Argentina on Wednesday, with the match taking place at 23:40 (SA time) on Saturday.
