Munster produce statement win over Bulls

Munster posted a statement victory in their quest for back-to-back United Rugby Championship titles as they beat the Bulls 27-22 at Loftus Versfeld.

Scrum-half Conor Murray’s try six minutes from time secured a bonus-point victory in Pretoria and took Munster above the Bulls into third place.

The home team had fly-half Johan Goosen sent off after 54 minutes for a dangerous challenge and Munster kept their composure to claim an outstanding win.

Wing Shane Daly, lock RG Snyman and replacement back-row forward John Hodnett also claimed touchdowns, with fly-half Jack Crowley kicking two conversions and a penalty.

The Bulls, despite fielding many of their international stars, had to be content with a losing bonus following tries by Elrigh Louw, Kurt-Lee Arendse and Johan Grobbelaar while Goosen added a penalty and two conversions.

The teams were separated by just one place and two points before kick-off and while Bulls dominated early possession they could make little headway against a well-organised Munster defence.

Munster were unlucky not to go in front when Murray’s 52-metre penalty attempt hit a post but they went ahead from their first attack after 19 minutes when brilliant handling from their backs – sparked by centre Alex Nankivell – created a try for Daly that Crowley converted.

It was a short-lived advantage, though, with Bulls responding through a trademark score that showcased their enviable forward power.

Louw attacked from the back of a scrum and after Munster initially held him up there was no stopping the skipper a second time as he took three defenders over the line with him.

Goosen converted and then kicked a penalty but Munster were not to be denied a strong first-half finish as they regained the initiative