Labuschagne lifted Bulls’ defence

Bulls flank Lappies Labuschagne put in a game-shaping defensive performance against the Stormers, according to SARugbymag.co.za's Opta-powered stats.

The Stormers enjoyed as much as 63% of the possession in the match at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday. And yet, they were contained for the most part by a determined and accurate Bulls defence.

The Bulls were forced to make as many as 145 tackles (85 more than the Stormers). Incredibly, their tackle completion was 90%. They conceded only three linebreaks.

Labuschagne put in a big performance for the hosts, with 23 tackles and two turnovers. The Bulls opensider didn't miss a single tackle.

Collectively, the Bulls made 10 turnovers on defence. They were dominant at the scrums and breakdowns, and managed to disrupt the Stormers' dangerous lineout. The visitors lost three lineouts, and one scrum.

While the Stormers had a lot of possession, they battled to translate it into points. Their defence also disappointed. The Stormers missed 12 tackles and finished the game with a modest 83% tackle success rate.

See how your favourite player fared in this match

Photo: Anne Laing/HSM Images

Post by

Jon Cardinelli