Edinburgh coach Sean Everitt credited flank Liam McConnell for disrupting the Stormers lineout at Hive Stadium on Friday night.
The visitors lost 11 lineouts in a 17-13 defeat, including one in stoppage time after they had kicked a penalty to the corner with an opportunity to snatch victory.
The Stormers’ problems began after Springbok hooker André-Hugo Venter was forced off for an HIA in the 22nd minute and failed to return, with replacement Vernon Paulo enduring a poor night.
RECAP: Edinburgh edge Stormers at the Hive
“We knew that we had a chance if we were able to contain the Stormers’ set-piece,” Everitt told Premier Sports.
“Liam McConnell contesting the lineout was world-class, and we prepared really well for that during the week.
“I think at the end of the day that got us over the line, with that last lineout, disrupting that and then winning the scrap.
“So, yes, very proud of the boys tonight.”
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Edinburgh have now won their opening two matches of the URC season, having kicked off their campaign with a 34-29 victory against Ulster in Belfast last weekend.
It is a significant turnaround for a team that failed to reach the playoffs last season, and Everitt believes his players are being rewarded for their work during pre-season.
“Yeah, very happy. We haven’t had that for some time,” he said of their two-from-two start.
“But a great start and a great fight tonight against a very strong Stormers team. I thought our boys stood up well and showed a lot of fight.
“I think what makes me happy is that 22 of the 23 did the full pre-season with us, and they’re getting a reward for their efforts.
“There’s been a lot of improvement made in the team. I know we weren’t as slick as we were last weekend, but the weather didn’t allow that either.”
Edinburgh’s next assignment is against Zebre Parma in Italy next Saturday.
Photo: Mark Scates/SNS Group via Getty Images
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