As the 2025-26 United Rugby Championship unfolds, the Stormers and Vodacom Bulls are strutting their stuff undefeated, leaving their rivals to play catch-up. Meanwhile, the Sharks finally snagged their first points, and the Lions showcased guts but not enough glory.
In Cape Town, the Stormers continued to flex their muscles, following up a stunning 35-0 shutout against the former champs Leinster with a solid 26-10 win over Ospreys. It's been three seasons since they last overcame the Welsh team, so chalk this up as a big statement. Their pack was a force of nature at scrum time, and the flair of Wandisile Simelane and Evan Roos didn't go unnoticed. "Our focus was on maintaining intensity and discipline," noted a team spokesperson, highlighting their readiness for the upcoming European tour.
"We need to step it up for Dublin,"
admitted Sharks coach John Plumtree after a gritty 17-17 draw against the Dragons under tough conditions in Newport. Amidst the frustration of missed opportunities, Jean Smith's composure at flyhalf and Vincent Tshituka's leadership shone through as rare bright spots.
Over in Pretoria, the Bulls showcased why they're top dogs with a 39-31 victory over a rejuvenated Leinster side. Willie le Roux turned back the clock with a try and a slick assist, proving his mettle. David Kriel's double try added the cherry on top, demonstrating the Bulls' potent attack. "We are building a squad with depth and character," noted Johan Ackermann, the mastermind behind the Bulls' strategies.
The Lions, on the other hand, faced a dramatic setback in Italy, losing 22-20 to Zebre in a match that slipped through their fingers at the last minute. Despite a spirited comeback, it was another tour game that got away. Coach Ivan van Rooyen expressed the need for his team to convert resilience into results: "It's about finishing the chances we create."
As the teams set sights on the next round of clashes, the table is set for more intense rugby action. Stormers face Scarlets, while the Sharks brace for a tough outing against Leinster. The Bulls look to continue their winning streak against Ulster, and the Lions aim to bounce back against Benetton.
Upcoming fixtures promise excitement and perhaps, a shift in the leaderboard as underdogs look to upset the frontrunners in this thrilling rugby championship.
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As the 2025-26 United Rugby Championship unfolds, the Stormers and Vodacom Bulls are strutting their stuff undefeated, leaving their rivals to play catch-up. Meanwhile, the Sharks finally snagged their first points, and the Lions showcased guts but not enough glory.
In Cape Town, the Stormers continued to flex their muscles, following up a stunning 35-0 shutout against the former champs Leinster with a solid 26-10 win over Ospreys. It's been three seasons since they last overcame the Welsh team, so chalk this up as a big statement. Their pack was a force of nature at scrum time, and the flair of Wandisile Simelane and Evan Roos didn't go unnoticed. "Our focus was on maintaining intensity and discipline," noted a team spokesperson, highlighting their readiness for the upcoming European tour.
"We need to step it up for Dublin,"
admitted Sharks coach John Plumtree after a gritty 17-17 draw against the Dragons under tough conditions in Newport. Amidst the frustration of missed opportunities, Jean Smith's composure at flyhalf and Vincent Tshituka's leadership shone through as rare bright spots.Over in Pretoria, the Bulls showcased why they're top dogs with a 39-31 victory over a rejuvenated Leinster side. Willie le Roux turned back the clock with a try and a slick assist, proving his mettle. David Kriel's double try added the cherry on top, demonstrating the Bulls' potent attack. "We are building a squad with depth and character," noted Johan Ackermann, the mastermind behind the Bulls' strategies.
The Lions, on the other hand, faced a dramatic setback in Italy, losing 22-20 to Zebre in a match that slipped through their fingers at the last minute. Despite a spirited comeback, it was another tour game that got away. Coach Ivan van Rooyen expressed the need for his team to convert resilience into results: "It's about finishing the chances we create."
As the teams set sights on the next round of clashes, the table is set for more intense rugby action. Stormers face Scarlets, while the Sharks brace for a tough outing against Leinster. The Bulls look to continue their winning streak against Ulster, and the Lions aim to bounce back against Benetton.
Upcoming fixtures promise excitement and perhaps, a shift in the leaderboard as underdogs look to upset the frontrunners in this thrilling rugby championship.