The final weekend of pre-season rugby delivered exactly what South African fans craved, competitive, high-octane action ahead of the United Rugby Championship kick-off. The Sharks and Bulls emerged victorious from their respective friendlies on Friday, whilst both fixtures provided crucial game-time and valuable lessons just days before the serious business begins.
Ellis Park thriller goes to the wire
The Sharks edged a pulsating encounter at Ellis Park, sneaking past the Lions 33-31 in a match that went right down to the wire. The Durban outfit will be pleased with their composure in closing out such a tight contest.
Bulls prevail in Paarl shootout
Up in the Winelands, the Bulls proved too strong for the Stormers, running out 38-26 winners at the Faure Street stadium in Paarl. After establishing a 17-12 advantage at the interval, Acker’s men kicked on in the second stanza to put daylight between themselves and their hosts. The 26-point haul suggests the Stormers’ attacking machinery is ticking over nicely, though defensive fragilities will concern John Dobson’s coaching team.
Davids announces his arrival
All the post-match chatter from Paarl centred on Stormers speedster Lleyton Davids, who produced a moment of individual brilliance that had spectators purring. The pocket rocket showcased blistering pace to burn new Bulls recruit Thaakir Abrahams on the outside before leaving the cover defence trailing in his wake. It was a statement try from a player clearly hungry to make his mark at this level.
Kolbe blow compounds Stormers’ woes
The feelgood factor surrounding Davids’ exploits was tempered by confirmation of the extent of Cheslin Kolbe’s injury. Stormers coach John Dobson revealed after the match that the Springbok wizard, who fractured his jaw in the third Test of the Greatest Rivalry Series against the All Blacks, faces an eight-week spell on the sidelines.
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“He’s out for eight weeks,” Dobson confirmed. “He would have played that whole [URC] October run, the four games. That was a hell of a blow.”
Kolbe’s absence robs the Stormers of one of world rugby’s most electrifying attacking weapons during a crucial opening stretch that will shape their campaign. The Cape Town franchise will need others to step up as they begin their URC defence away to Connacht next weekend.
Ackermann delighted with injury-free run-out
Bulls coach Johan Ackermann couldn’t hide his satisfaction with how proceedings unfolded in Paarl, particularly given his charges emerged unscathed from the physical examination.
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“I just told Dobbo, it was perfect in terms of what we wanted to see from the players,” Ackermann said. “There were errors that we know we must fix, but the big plus is there were no injuries. There were some good moments, and we are happy about it.”
With the Bulls set to travel to Italy to face Zebre in their URC opener, Ackermann will value having a full squad available as his side look to build on last season’s strong showing.
URC battle commences
These friendlies served their purpose, sharpening match fitness, testing combinations, and providing a final opportunity to iron out tactical wrinkles before competitive action resumes. For the Sharks, Lions, Bulls, and Stormers, the real work begins next weekend when championship points are on the line.
The Stormers face a daunting trip to the Sportsground to tackle Connacht, whilst the Bulls will fancy their chances of opening with a win against Zebre in Parma.
