The Vodacom Bulls finished the Carling Currie Cup season as they started – with power and purpose – as they beat the Toyota Cheetahs 35-31 on Saturday night.
Boosted by several internationals and likely Vodacom URC players, the hosts were powerful in all facets as they started strongly and maintained their grip against a keen Cheetahs side.
Four first half tries at Loftus Versfeld effectively sealed the deal as the Vodacom Bulls mixed it up between forwards and backs, striking hard and fast before an appreciative crowd.
Johan Grobbelaar on the charge for the Vodacom Bulls.
The Cheetahs were under the pump from the start and although they clawed back a first half try, they had few early chances on a night when the Bulls opted to flex their muscle. Captain Marcell Coetzee was the wrecker in chief, his strong-arm tackling setting the tone.
Unfortunately, a mis-timed tackle in the 50th minute cost him dearly as the referee flashed him a red card. An early shower beckoned.
By then the match was won and the Bulls opted to bring on several replacements, giving the likes of Cobus Wiese, Ruan Swart, Paul de Wet and Francois Klopper a run.
Their momentum stalled somewhat, however, and the never-say-die Cheetahs took advantage to score several tries that drew them closer (and earned a bonus point for Currie Cup semifinal qualification), but weren’t enough to deny the Bulls.
BULLS SCORERS
Tries: Johan Grobbelaar, Cheswill Jooste (2), Mpilo Gumede, David Kriel
Conversions: Keagan Johannes (5)
