VODACOM BULLS TARGET TOP SIX AS SHARKS EYE SHIELD GLORY

A high-stakes South African derby ignites Loftus Versfeld this Saturday as the Vodacom Bulls host the Hollywoodbets Sharks. With both sides fighting for a foothold in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship top eight and the prestigious South African Shield on the line, this Round 12 origins clash carries the intensity of a playoff final.

The Vodacom Bulls enter this fixture refreshed but potentially rusty after a month-long break, notwithstanding last week’s friendly limb-loosener against Boland. Their last official outing was a masterclass, a 52-17 demolition of the Lions in late January.

However, the Sharks have been more active; despite a 34-22 setback against the Lions last weekend, their recent double-victory over the Stormers proved they have rediscovered their clinical edge under the guidance of JP Pietersen.

“The Sharks will test us on all fronts,” said Vodacom Bulls coach Johan Ackermann. “They have quality forwards, a good set piece, power in the centres and speed out wide. It will be a great test for us, hopefully before a big home crowd.”

Historical data favours the hosts, but recent trends tell a more complex story:

• The Bulls have lost their last three matches at Loftus Versfeld. They haven’t lost four in a row at home since March 2023, making this a must-win to protect their fortress.
• The Sharks triumphed 21-12 in their most recent meeting (December 2025), and they also won 29-19 on their last visit to Pretoria in February 2025.
• This match features the two best scrums in the VURC. The Bulls boast a 97% win efficiency, while the Sharks follow closely at 95%.

For the Sharks, a bonus-point win would mathematically secure the South African Shield. For the Vodacom Bulls, a victory is essential to leapfrog back into the top six and secure a favourable playoff path. Expect a physical, tactical arm-wrestle where discipline and the presence of frontline Springboks, including Handre Pollard and Elrigh Louw, will be the deciding factors.