This weekend, South African rugby fans are in for another thrilling round of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship as the country’s teams face key matchups before the tournament takes a break until late November.
This weekend, South African rugby fans are in for another thrilling round of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) as the country’s teams face key matchups before the tournament takes a break until late November.
Headlining the fixtures, the Emirates Lions will take on competition leaders Leinster, the Vodacom Bulls look to regain momentum on tour, and the DHL Stormers and Hollywoodbets Sharks aim to build on their recent home successes.
Bulls vs Benetton
In Treviso, the Bulls start off the weekend action on Friday night against Benetton. The Pretoria-based side, currently sitting fourth on the log, aims to recover after last week’s narrow loss against the Scarlets. Benetton, ranked eighth, is on a high after recent wins over the Dragons and the Sharks.
While history favours the Bulls with four consecutive wins over Benetton, the Italians are not to be underestimated at home.
This is what it’s all about 🫶@GlasgowWarriors 🤝 @TheStormers
A big shoutout to @Gilbert_Rugby for gifting rugby balls to Kylemore 🏉#CommunitiesUnited https://t.co/2PuBLCpHdE pic.twitter.com/WK6aps5exx
— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) October 24, 2024
Stormers vs Glasgow Warriors
Meanwhile, the Stormers face defending champions, the Glasgow Warriors, in Stellenbosch on Saturday. The Capetonians will be out to continue their strong form after a solid bonus-point victory over Munster last weekend.
Although the Scots have been resilient with close-call finishes, the Stormers will look to capitalise on their home ground advantage and gain points to climb higher on the log.
Sharks vs Munster
At Hollywoodbets Kings Park in Durban, the Sharks are set for an intense match against Munster. With just one point separating the two sides in the standings, both teams are keen to improve on their two wins thus far.
Despite a challenging tour opener, the Sharks bounced back by beating the Glasgow Warriors, showcasing the tenacity they’ll need against Munster, who have struggled in their last two outings.
Leinster vs Lions
Saturday’s action concludes in Dublin, where the Lions take on Leinster in a highly anticipated encounter. Both teams remain unbeaten, and with the Lions eager to make a statement, fans can expect a gripping contest.
Leinster’s potent attack and home advantage give them an edge, but the Lions’ fierce defence and determination to cause an upset could make for a compelling clash.
With crucial log points up for grabs and teams eager to close this leg of the tournament on a high, this weekend promises excitement for South African rugby fans as they rally behind their teams.
This Weekend’s URC Fixtures:
Benetton vs Vodacom Bulls
Date: Friday, 25 October
Venue: Stadio Monigo, Treviso
SA Time: 20h35
Referee: Eoghan Cross
TV: SuperSport
DHL Stormers vs Glasgow Warriors
Date: Saturday, 26 October
Venue: Danie Craven Stadium, Stellenbosch
SA Time: 13h45
Referee: Andrew Brace
TV: SuperSport
Hollywoodbets Sharks vs Munster
Date: Saturday, 26 October
Venue: HollywoodBets Kings Park, Durban
SA Time: 16h00
Referee: Hollie Davidson
TV: SuperSport
Leinster vs Emirates Lions
Date: Saturday, 26 October
Venue: Aviva Stadium, Dublin
SA Time: 18h15
Referee: Craig Evans
TV: SuperSport
