Round 2 of the United Rugby Championship delivered a mixed bag for South Africa’s franchises. The Sharks and Lions won at home to stay near the top of the table, while the Stormers and Bulls lost their first games of the season on tour.
Stormers Fall Short in Edinburgh
Siya Kolisi’s return wasn’t enough to lift the Stormers in Edinburgh on 2 October. The visitors had the edge in physicality, but they couldn’t turn their advantages into points, and Edinburgh benefited from multiple lineout errors.
The sides traded penalties until Paul Hill scored the first try in the 57th minute. Hacjivah Dayimani put the Stormers back in front, but a late Rory Mchaffie try sealed a 17-13 win for the hosts.
Lions Overpower Ospreys
At Ellis Park on 3 October, the Lions secured a bonus-point 35-19 victory over an Ospreys side still reeling from their round one defeat to the Sharks. The Lions dominated in periods, though the Ospreys stayed in the contest. Kelly Mpeku scored twice, and Francke Horn, who impressed all over the field, was named Player of the Match.
Sharks Edge Defending Champions Leinster
In Durban on Saturday, the Sharks won a tense, back-and-forth contest 26-20 against the reigning champions. Leinster’s discipline let them down, and the Sharks scored a second try after the visitors were reduced to 14 men. Edwill van der Merwe’s crucial interception and try settled it, with Leinster adding a consolation score as time expired. Two bonus-point wins from two games put the Sharks top of the combined standings.
Bulls Undone in Limerick
The Bulls lost 26-22 to Munster on Saturday despite arriving with momentum from their win over Zebre. Munster youngster Charlie O’Shea scored two tries and kicked three conversions. The Bulls defended well but struggled to convert territory and possession into points, and their mistakes proved costly.
Round 2 Results
- Edinburgh 17 – 13 Stormers
- Lions 35 – 19 Ospreys
- Sharks 26 – 20 Leinster
- Munster 26 – 22 Bulls
Which South African franchise impressed you most in Round 2? Tell us in the comments.
