Bulls outlast Pumas to exact revenge

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The Vodacom Bulls scored seven tries to a claim a commanding 48-31 win over the Pumas in Nelspruit on Tuesday.

The setting: While these friendlies merely serve as preparation for the upcoming Rainbow Cup, this match had a little added spice following the Pumas’ shock 44-14 win over Jake White’s charges in the Currie Cup earlier this year at the same venue. The Bulls had a score to settle this time around and they did that just.

Gameflow: Despite what the scoreline may suggest, this was a closely fought contest with the teams going blow for blow. Two tries either way meant the sides were locked at 14-14, but two quick-fire scores for the Bulls towards the end of the half and a lowly penalty for the Pumas gave the visitors a 27-17 lead at the break. The second half was more one-sided as the Bulls outscored their hosts four tries to two.

Standout player: The Bulls forwards laid the foundation for the victory and hooker Joe van Zyl was at the centre of that dominance with a two-try performance.

Bulls – Tries: Joe van Zyl (2), Stravino Jacobs, Gerhard Steenekamp, Mornay Smith, Marnus Potgieter, Janco Uys. Conversions: Chris Smith (5). Penalty: Smith.
Pumas – Tries: Francois Kleinhans, Brandon Valentine, Penalty try, Dewald Maritz. Conversions: Niel Marais (3), Automatic conversion. Penalty: Marais.

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SA Rugby magazine