Loftus thriller: Bulls’ five standout stars behind victory over Leinster

The Bulls had to dig deep to pull off Saturday’s 39-31 United Rugby Championship win over defending champions Leinster in a Loftus thriller that featured end-to-end action.

Here are five Bulls players who helped snatch victory from the jaws of defeat and avenge last season’s heartbreaking loss in the URC final.

Willie le Roux

The veteran fullback was the heartbeat of the Bulls’ attack. His vision and creativity unlocked the Leinster defence time and again after his late introduction with the game poised on a knife edge. He scored a try and set up Stravino Jacobs for an easy score with a delightful cross-kick. Le Roux’s calm presence at the back provided assurance under the high ball, and his decision-making in broken play shifted the game in the Bulls’ favour. It was a performance of pure class that underlined the Bok legend’s value to the side.

Keagan Johannes

Fly-half Johannes was the architect of the Bulls’ game plan.

He slotted conversions and a vital penalty as the home side tried to build scoreboard pressure in a tight contest, while his control of territory kept Leinster pinned in dangerous areas. A clever chip into the grateful arms of Sebastian de Klerk got the ball rolling for the hosts and showcased his vision. Johannes’ composure and calm head under pressure were vital to the Bulls’ tactical execution.

Mpilo Gumede

Throughout the match, the powerful loose forward was a battler in the tight phases, offering go-forward metres that earned the Bulls front-foot ball.

The 25-year-old kept Leinster’s defence busy with barnstorming runs and was rewarded with a try that ensured the hosts led at half-time. He also put his body on the line in defence and was a constant presence at the breakdown. It was no surprise when he was named Man of the Match for his energetic all-round display.

Marcell Coetzee

The seasoned flanker was immense in defence as the skipper led the tackle count for the Bulls.

His tireless work rate around the breakdown and calm leadership in tight moments helped steady the side when Leinster mounted their comeback, repelling wave after wave of attack. Coetzee’s influence was critical in maintaining composure and defensive discipline.

David Kriel

Centre Kriel scored twice — including the match-winner after a sharp intercept in the dying minutes — and kept his nerve to slot a crucial conversion. His defensive work and contesting of Leinster’s attacking breaks kept the pressure on throughout. Kriel’s clinical finishing in both the opening and closing phases proved decisive, reaffirming his status as one of the Bulls’ most dependable big-match players.