All Blacks secure 50-19 victory over Bulls in Pretoria warm-up
The All Blacks defeated the Bulls 50-19 in Pretoria, scoring eight tries in their latest Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour fixture. This match served as a warm-up ahead of their first test against the Springboks next weekend.
The New Zealand side demonstrated strong control throughout the game, which was anticipated to be their most challenging encounter before the four-match test series. This performance followed earlier victories against the Stormers (38-21) and the Sharks (54-0), marking their most comprehensive display to date.
Dominant Performance and Key Players
The All Blacks showcased a solid set-piece and dominated the breakdown area. Their discipline also saw improvement, despite facing a Bulls team that was described as depleted. The first test against the world champion Springboks is scheduled for next Saturday in Johannesburg.
Codie Taylor, the New Zealand captain, acknowledged the physicality of the match, stating that the Bulls presented challenges in various phases. He also noted that the upcoming test against the Springboks would bring an even higher tempo and level of physicality, which is characteristic of test match rugby.
The opening try for New Zealand came from a straightforward backline manoeuvre designed to counter the Bulls‘ rush defence, culminating in wing Josh Moorby crossing the try-line. Moorby later added a second score. The Bulls faced further pressure when prop Francois Klopper received a yellow card for repeated infringements within their own 22-metre line.
Following Klopper‘s yellow card, hooker Taylor scored his first try from a quick-tap penalty. The All Blacks‘ effectiveness at the breakdown led to numerous turnovers and errors from the Bulls. Taylor then secured his second try, contributing to a dominant first half that saw the visitors establish a 24-0 lead.
In the second half, the Bulls managed to score their first try through lock Ruan Vermaak. Despite an attempt by television match official Eric Gauzins to overturn the decision for a perceived knock-on, referee Nika Amashukeli upheld his original call. Normal play resumed with wing Leroy Carter scoring two tries, and centre Rieko Ioane and loose-forward Wallace Sititi each adding a try, pushing the team past the 50-point mark.
Individual Accolades and Team Preparation
Anton Segner, a loose-forward for the All Blacks and Blues, was awarded man-of-the-match for his performance against the Bulls. Segner, who made his All Blacks debut against Italy in Wellington, has intensified competition for selection ahead of the first test against the Springboks.
The 25-year-old Segner contributed twelve carries and thirteen tackles during his impactful display. His ability to secure breakdown turnovers was also highlighted as a positive by coach Dave Rennie and the coaching staff. A notable moment for Segner in the second half involved holding up a Bulls ball carrier near the try-line, resulting in a line drop-out for the All Blacks.
Speaking after the match at Loftus Versfeld, Rennie praised Segner‘s performance, also mentioning other strong contributors. He noted that Pete Lakai was excellent before being substituted, and described Segner‘s contribution as “massive.” Rennie also highlighted the efforts of Josh Moorby, who started the previous test against Ireland and played off the bench against Italy, and Leroy Carter, who was strong on the wing.
Segner commented on the playing conditions in Pretoria, describing them as “different” from what he is accustomed to in New Zealand. He noted the altitude, stating that the location is approximately 1350 meters above sea level, and that he and his teammates felt the difference. Despite the score, Segner acknowledged the difficulty of the game, particularly in the second half when the Bulls applied significant pressure, requiring the All Blacks to regroup and regain control.
Captain Codie Taylor reflected on the team’s progress, stating that they have now played three matches and gained experience with South African rugby. He expressed confidence that the team is well-prepared for the upcoming test series against the Springboks. The first test against the Springboks is scheduled for next Saturday in Johannesburg.
Source: rnz.co.nz
Isla Hartley is a Sports Reporter at NewsUK. She covered the British summer of sport from Wimbledon to the Test grounds. She focuses on tennis, cricket and athletics and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. She holds a degree in Sports Studies from the University of Stirling and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Glasgow, she runs half-marathons and follows Scottish athletics. “The overlooked athlete usually has the better story.”
