The DHL Stormers and Lions recorded important derby wins, while the Sharks blew a golden opportunity on the opening weekend of the 2017 Super Rugby tournament, writes JON CARDINELLI.

The Stormers thumped the Bulls in Cape Town on Saturday evening to take an early lead in the Africa 1 conference race. The Bulls did manage to deny the Stormers a try-scoring bonus-point, though, and that single point may prove significant if there's a close finish at the end of the season.

That said, the Bulls now have some catching up to do. They can’t afford to lose their following matches against the Cheetahs and Sunwolves, matches that precede a difficult tour to New Zealand.

There’s an opportunity for the Stormers to build some momentum ahead of their own challenging sojourn in the Land of the Long White Cloud. On the other hand, one or two losses at home, and they will allow the Bulls back into the race.

REPORT: Stormers outmuscle Bulls

The Lions have much to rectify if they’re going to go one better this season and capture the Super Rugby title. Following a narrow win in Bloemfontein, they’re ranked second in the Africa 2 conference (behind the Jaguares).

The Lions will host the lacklustre Waratahs in round two. Meanwhile, the Cheetahs, who earned a losing bonus point for their efforts in round one, will meet the Bulls at the Free State Stadium. They might fancy their chances of an upset after pushing the Lions close and after watching the Bulls struggle in Cape Town.

REPORT: Lions battle past Cheetahs

Speaking of opportunities, the Sharks let a big one slip in Brisbane this past Friday. The Reds scored late in the piece to deny the Sharks a winning start to their tour and campaign. Judging by how the Brumbies played in an abrasive and defence-oriented contest in Christchurch, the Sharks will be hard pressed to win in Canberra in round two.

The Kings were competitive at times in their opening clash against the Jaguares in Port Elizabeth. While the Eastern Cape boys looked to have improved in some areas, they could struggle later in the season when injuries strike.

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