The Blue Bulls upheld their end of the playoff bargain with a fine 52-32 Currie Cup win over the Pumas at Loftus on Friday evening.
John Mitchell’s troops played some sparkling attacking rugby once again and temporary move into a semifinal position.
But that position is not in their hands.
Nonetheless, should this be the end of the road for them, they’ll have confidence going into the Super Rugby campaign next year.
The Pumas never gave up but will once again reflect on a campaign of what-ifs.
Who was the star in this match?
Fleet-footed prop Pierre Schoeman enjoyed broken play while Warrick Gelant once again dazzled from fullback for the Bulls but the hard-working Travis Ismaiel deserved the plaudits. Given that he had to move into a starting postion at the 11th hour, the winger rounded off his tries well and always looked for work. Not bad for a guy returning from injury.
Key moments and themes
Point scorers
Blue Bulls – Tries: Travis Ismaiel (2), Edgar Marutlulle, Ivan van Zyl, Warrick Gelant, Marco van Staden, Burger Odendaal, JT Jackson. Conversions: Marnitz Boshoff (6).
Pumas – Tries: Jannie Stander, Willie Engelbrecht, Selom Gavor, Frankie Herne. Conversions: Kobus Marais (3). Penalties: Marais (2).
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