The Bulls secure a narrow victory against the Lions
The Vodacom Bulls secured a 30-28 victory over the Emirates Lions with a late penalty kick, as the Lions missed a crucial penalty attempt in injury time.
The closely contested Vodacom United Rugby Championship match occurred at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on January 27, with the teams consistently close on the scoreboard.
The Pretoria outfit’s win elevated them from sixth to fourth in the Vodacom URC standings after nine rounds, maintaining an unbeaten home record.
The Emirates Lions, now in 10th place, secured a losing bonus point. In the first half, the Johannesburgers defended well, forcing errors and taking a 13-12 lead.
The Vodacom Bulls improved in the second half, capitalizing on opportunities. Johan Goosen’s late penalty secured the lead, but a missed attempt by Jordan Hendrikse prevented the Lions from a potential victory.
The Emirates Lions forced their way back into the lead with seven minutes to play as Hendrikse slotted a long-range penalty goal for a 28-27 lead, after which the match ended on a knife’s edge as Goosen landed a crucial penalty goal go 30-28 up with a minute to play.
Hendrikse had a final shot at goal for a valuable away win for the Emirates Lions after the siren. Still, his attempt proved unsuccessful, which sealed the significant win for the hosts.
