Tries galore in the Jukskei derby as Bulls narrowly squeeze past Lions

The Bulls and Lions served up a thrilling Currie Cup clash at Ellis Park on Saturday as the Blue Bulls secured a tense 33-32 victory over the Lions.

It could have gone the other way, however, but Lions flyhalf Gianni Lombard missed a last-minute drop-goal attempt that went well wide.

The Bulls established an early lead after Springbok No 8 Elrigh Louw went over in the third minute – a lead they maintained throughout the Jukskei derby.

RECAP | Currie Cup: Bulls 33-32 Lions

A total of eight tries were scored in the afternoon as both Gauteng sides showed their attacking qualities in the Johannesburg sun.

After scoring four tries in the first-half, the Bulls held a 26-20 advantage at half-time.

With tries from Louw, David Kriel, Embrose Papier, Mornay Smith, and Marcell Coetzee, the Bulls showcased their attacking prowess, while wing Edwill van der Merwe's two tries threatened their lead.

Despite the Lions' determined fight until the end, the Bulls showcased resilient defending to preserve their two-point lead.

Scorers

Lions 32 (20)

Tries: Francke Horn, Edwill van der Merwe (2)

Conversions: Sanele Nohamba, Gianni Lombard

Penalties: Sanele Nohamba (2)

Blue Bulls 33 (26)

Tries: Elrigh Louw, David Kriel, Embrose Papier, Mornay Smith, and Marcell Coetzee

Conversions: Johan Goosen (4)