Moodie magic helps Bulls end winless URC streak with massive Zebre rout

At Ellis Park, Johannesburg

The Bulls had a welcome and belated return to United Rugby Championship (URC) form when they crushed winless Zebre 78-12 in an unfamiliar home game in Johannesburg.

The moment Jake White's desperate side took a 12-0 lead in the first five minutes through tries from Canan Moodie (who scored a hat-trick) and Embrose Papier, it was clear that it was going to be their day.

FT | URC - Bulls v Zebre

However, the news of their ninth URC win of the season, their first since the 29-14 win against the Dragons on 6 January, slipped into the periphery when the news of Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber leaving the Springboks after the World Cup filtered through during the second half.

That took the gloss off an important win for the Bulls, who moved to 48 points, taking one step closer to booking a spot in the quarterfinals at a soulless and cold Ellis Park.

The significance of this win wasn't lost on the Bulls as they have Leinster at home next week, but at least, they have their playoff fate in their hands.

The Bulls secured their win through a powerful first-half performance where the class of their Springbok outside backs Kurt-Lee Arendse and Moodie was undeniable.

It was Arendse's grubber that opened the path to Moodie's first try in the second minute, with all the backs combining for Papier's first try in the fifth minute.

The Bulls had a soft defensive moment in the 12th minute that allowed former player Richard Kriel to score in the right-hand corner.

The Bulls then resumed their ruthlessness against their hapless visitors when Papier was the recipient of an excellent inside chip kick by David Kriel to complete his brace in the 22nd minute.

Moodie completed his hat-trick before lock Ruan Vermaak powered