Stormers close gap on Leinster to three after mauling Lions

Emphatic 40-8 victory in Cape Town for holders while Sharks brush aside Bulls and Benetton back up their derby dominance 

ROARING: Manie Libbok of the DHL Stormers scores against the Lions in Cape Town. Pic: INPHO/Steve Haag Sports/Thinus Maritz

Ahead of a hectic New Year's Day schedule, the Stormers closed the gap on United Rugby Championship leaders Leinster to just three points after beating Lions 40-8 in Cape Town.

The URC title holders made it eight wins from 10 starts in this season's competition with a bonus-point success.