The Stormers will need a fast start if they are to challenge for a top-four finish in 2010.
Fast start needed for the Stormers
Last year's Super 14 campaign was a disappointing one for the Stormers after showing such encouraging signs in 2008, when they came so close to making the semis.
Tenth place on the tournament ladder last season was a result of eight defeats from the 13 games played, three of them on home soil.
Five-pointers were almost non-existent as the men in navy blue could only muster up one bonus point for scoring four tries or more.
In all, the Stormers posted 235 points past all opposition, the third lowest in the competition, but can feel slightly better knowing that they had one of the best defensive records in 2009.
However it wasn't long ago that the Stormers evoked excitement - their brand of expansive rugby meant some big wins and bigger home crowds until a continuous slump in form confined the Cape Town-based side to the status of under-performers of Super Rugby.
It's been said time and time again, but based on Western Province's good showing in the Currie Cup, 2010 could be the Stormers' year.
The arrival of Bok stars Jaque Fourie and Bryan Habana has been heralded with excitement in the Cape, while the front row finally seems to have what it takes to battle with the best.
Their draw too is a perfect one. Apart from only having four matches on tour, the Stormers have a good sequence of home games before they leave overseas and then another sequence of home games to finish.
But they'll have to make those early matches count, as the last three hurdles will see them take on the Crusaders, Sharks and Bulls.
