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The Vodacom Bulls’ perfect streak in the United Rugby Championship ended suddenly in Belfast, as Ulster secured a strong 28-7 win in their first home game of the season.

The loss marked the Bulls’ initial setback of the season following their impressive beginning against Ospreys and Leinster in Pretoria.

Big names, quiet impact

Jake White’s team arrived in Belfast filled with World Cup-winning expertise. Handre Pollard, Canan Moodie, Willie le Roux, and Marco van Staden all made their way back into the starting lineup, adding a highly talented presence to the visiting squad.

However, the Springbok group was unable to perform well, as Ulster’s intense effort and defensive structure prevented the visitors from establishing any flow.

The initial moments were marked by cautious play and mistakes, with neither team managing to take charge. Ulster ended the stalemate in the 22nd minute when center Stuart McCloskey seized a loose Bulls pass along the backline, running forward to score near the posts. Scrum-half Nathan Doak, who would later be named Man of the Match, successfully kicked the conversion to make it 7-0.

The Bulls responded after Ulster’s hooker Rob Herring received a yellow card for repeated penalties. Seizing the opportunity with an extra player, tighthead prop Wilco Louw scored from close range after a quick tap. Pollard successfully converted the try, making the score 7-7, which remained unchanged at halftime.

Louw stood out as a positive element among the returning Springboks, showing his typical aggressive style from the start by asserting his presence during scrums.

Collapse after the break

The second half presented a completely different narrative. No 8 Jeandré Rudolph received a yellow card for unsportsmanlike conduct, allowing Ulster to take charge. Choosing a tap penalty close to the line, former Stormers player Juarno Augustus pushed his way over to regain Ulster’s advantage.

From that point, the home team excelled in all areas – performance, strength, and calmness – while the Bulls had difficulty mounting any counter.

While Rudolph was serving his time in the sin bin, Ulster scored 21 consecutive points. Herring, who had come back after his previous yellow card, along with lock Cormac Izuchukwu, scored additional tries to secure the bonus-point victory. Izuchukwu’s try resulted from a swift play that started with a Bulls turnover deep within their own half.

‘A massive step forward’

Ulster’s victory was fueled by strong defensive determination and constant forward pressure. Head coach Richie Murphy commended his team’s perseverance and group effort.

“I was completely amazed by the lads’ dedication and their work ethic, their determination to keep fighting,” Murphy said.

He pointed out their defensive achievements as a pivotal moment: “At times, some of the goal-line plays – one in the first half, a few in the second half – were simply incredible. No one really halts the Bulls when they get into position, so being able to do that is a major leap forward for us.”

Murphy also acknowledged his forwards for keeping up with the Bulls’ strong pack in the scrums. “The scrum contest was significant,” he remarked.

Bulls’ struggles exposed

On the other hand, the Bulls’ performance in the second half collapsed. Their set plays failed, handling mistakes increased, and their control over the game disappeared. Even with Pollard playing at flyhalf, they never appeared capable of making a recovery.

They were unrecognizable, with their game strategy struggling under constant pressure. The visitors’ defensive line kept collapsing under Ulster’s strong runs, and their offense provided little in the way of answers.

Ulster’s win was supported by notable individual performances. Augustus made a strong impression in just his second appearance for the team, showcasing strength and effort in an impressive display.

Doak’s performance at scrum-half was outstanding as he successfully converted all four tries and controlled the pace throughout. Full-back Jacob Stockdale also made an impact with his aggressive approach, keeping the Bulls’ defense on alert and utilizing smart running routes to find space.

Ulster’s decisive bonus-point victory boosts their confidence as they head to South Africa for consecutive games against the Sharks and Lions.

The Bulls, on the other hand, aim to recover before their upcoming tour game against Connacht in Galway – a contest that now holds added significance following their awakening in Belfast.