Leinster bridesmaids again...credit to the Bulls!

[@AliKay3011]

Let me give you a NZ perspective. I don't care who you are you are never the favourites when you're a visiting team to Loftus! The most successful rugby club in the world, the Crusaders will tell you that. Those Saffas were not good at touring down under during super rugby, with the exception of the Stormers for some reason. But the last thing you want is to allow them to host the finals! They grew an arm and a leg, especially at Loftus. Sheesh!

[@klaasvakie]

Jeez a Kiwi with kind words. You're a rarity mate!

[@BrettStealth]

@@klaasvakie the true Kiwis are always classy

[@mitchellzimri8257]

100% agree

[@koosduplooy8811]

Very true!​@@BrettStealth

[@mthunziphakathi4215]

Sharks were good travellers as well.

[@business3867]

Seriously I don't think enough has been made of that refereeing performance absolutely shocking and what if the Bulls had lost? Everyone would be saying oh here go the South Africans blaming the ref again but that was a utterly diabolical performance on the whistle. Any more and I would have thought it was rigged.

[@davesmith826]

It was the worst refereeing I've seen in a long, long time. Even the disallowed try was shambolic. Yes, Van Staden throws someone off the ball, but he did that because that person was holding on to him OFF THE BALL! The hit on Willie Le Roux was a straight red. The trip on Hanekom off the pitch was a yellow. The repeated collapsed scrums should have led to repeated penalties and eventually yellows. Leinster played a dirty, dirty game and almost got away with it. Thankfully the right team won, and the Boks can now use Leinster's performance as motivation for the first test against the Irish next month 😁

[@TheJontydavid]

It was really shocking I totally agree.

[@johncraig9011]

@@davesmith826 I couldn't say it any better, even though I didn't watch the game

[@JohnMichaels-fs7bi]

Andrew Porter is a disgraceful player. He been pulling down scrum for 3 years and only England ref is giving penalty. This is shocking!!!

[@jonathanmogale1396]

The ref us corrupt. He's been paid by bookies.

[@jonathanredman2153]

Calling this an upset is actually ridiculous, they clearly know nothing about Loftus

[@christo_kruger]

Could not agree more, Loftus is hallowed ground!

[@joseparedes5703]

I agree with you bud any team that comes and play in the Highveld will struggle be it Ellis Park or Loftus i congratulate the Bulls well done boys i have already booked my tickets for the finals at Loftus😂😂😂

[@decekfrokfr3mdx]

The bookies had Leinster as favourites by a few points. That is how upset is usually defined, i.e. did the bookies favourites win or not.

[@krlauf5307]

You are so right.

[@gerardbenson1844]

It's a dump and South Africans are peasants

[@dve804]

A saffer perspective... Irish are generally very gracious in defeat (except of course Ger). Leinster is still an amazing team - love watching their style of play & I'm sure they will win next season - true class.

[@SMacCuUladh]

Classy comment.

[@jamescook8786]

Appreciate the kind words. Yes, Ger is a clown ;)

[@Skyscraper2015]

Hm I usually find when someone says "I'm sure of this" they usually mean "I am not sure" and you would be right. 3 double seasons without any trophy, Leinster are not sure they will be getting anything next season. They are a good team but since the introduction of the South African franchises particularly with the thinking that every season the final has been hosted in South Africa, you gotta think that the South African teams have their number now. Leinster need to improve on something which I am going to say is "This whole resting business is killing them". Play your players, play teams with a good mix of experience, freshness, quality, style, etcetera. Because they continually rest their Irish team and bring under-baked goods to South Africa and then expect to have top quality rugby and even their full Irish team is half-baked. They have rested too long. They have no idea how to play properly in South Africa. They play well but don't respect the touring and so always bring a pathetic version of themselves to South Africa and then we as South African teams get flak for sending a second string team up North. If Leinster respected the South African tours like Munster did, then they would probably be much better suited to all round URC rugby.

[@dve804]

@@Skyscraper2015 Yes, naturally the expression is not be taken literally (no-one can be sure of anything in the future), its a turn of phrase. My view is Leinster tried to win everything and spread themselves too thin. They are a side with the best pedigree & have the potential to dominate the URC (if they fully focus on it - like the bulls did). They will learn from this. As a Saffer, in my heart, I will always support our local sides, but I try to be more objective in analysis.

[@TheProtea09]

Don't come to Loftus and call the Bulls the underdogs.

[@randomlyfactual1943]

I think they looked at it from the perspective of how many Ireland internationals versus how many Springboks were in the lineups. Which is, I have to say, not an unfair assessment. Us here in SA, though, we ALWAYS have another two guys in every position as good as anyone in the Springbok lineup. Think Kolisi is good? Etzebeth? Kitshoff? Pollard? Le Roux? Kolbe? They are...but we have others that can click into position tomorrow if need be. Hulle weet nie wat ons weet nie, tjom.

[@krlauf5307]

Leinster captain's remarks very classy. In SA we have huge regard for the Irish and Leinster system - you still lead the way in most metrics. Just a note: traditionally over the last 70+ years the Bulls (N. Tvl) have always scrummed pretty well, better than most, as well as lineouts, mauls...the niceties and nitty gritty of rugged forward play, more so even than the full Bok pack at scrum, maul, tight-loose etc. And then as you would have seen, the kicking game at altitude takes on a different form entirely. World Rugby can try change the rules, but in the northern parts of SA we really really like to scrum.

[@neilmontgomery3470]

Thanks mate, civilised words, However some of the other comments aren't so kind.

[@DD-RSA]

This current Bulls scrum is the strongest in the competition. The way they out scrummed the Sharks is testament to that.

[@neilpcarroll23]

Ya, agreed, the vast majority of SA fan remarks towards Irish rugby and people are filled with hatred and even lately some racism. Also, some have completely overreacted to things they’ve heard in the Irish media.

[@granthibberd6069]

@@neilpcarroll23yea and all the Irish comments have been polite and full of respect and decorum. Way too much chat from the Irish for very little end product at the business end. That gets you some hate, take it on the chin or learn to be more humble.

[@kiliancarroll4562]

@@granthibberd6069 Are you a South African lecturing Irish people to be more humble? That really is hilarious.

[@johanschoeman869]

I will say this for the Irish....they have class. I look forward to visiting Ireland next seaon and having a cold one with some Irish rugby fans.

[@jacquesventer3170]

Not the first time I see Irish women showing some really good rugby insight. Impressed

[@yazeedvanwyk1547]

Absolutely!

[@Etain18]

And we have many more who are rugby pundits on the Irish-language channel TG4 (Rugbaí Beo - which we all watch to a) see the URC matches, and b) brush up on our Irish!). Mná power.

[@koosduplooy8811]

Agreed!

[@TheBliksempie]

Loftus has been the grave yard for the Chiefs, Crusaders and now Leinster. Over a 100 years of rugby history, the Bulls at Loftus during knock out stages, is a totally different beast. They do not play like they would otherwise, for them it is a matter of living up to the standard of those who came before them. The current team does not have the caps or experience of their opponents, but they have the caps of all the Loftus legends and they know they have to play up to the standards those before them set. Goosen, puts on the same jersey Handre Pollard, Morne Steyn and Naas Botha wore.....it expected that he shouldn't be any less.

[@thabomazwayi4422]

Jack White sent some of these players to face Northampton Saints I'm the Champions Cup, and he was blamed for sending a B team. Peterson, Hanekom and Williams were among those. Look at how they played tonight. It's not all about financial resources, and Jake has shown it tonight 😮

[@johannblignaut1966]

Can understand disappointment of Leinster fans.They remain one of the best sides in the world and a credit to rugby.🇿🇦

[@JaemanEdwards]

A credit to rugby unlike the boring negative cowardly Springboks

[@neilmontgomery3470]

Not to be our year. Our form was pretty poor for most of the season with the exception of a few standout performances. I think we should be better next year. I don't think we deserved to win anything this year, and most Leinster fans will admit that.

[@onskyk]

@JaemanEdwards. Who crawled up you fanny and sneezed mate?

[@kerrylass2]

@@neilmontgomery3470 Yes agree..its been a frustrating watch with our attack clearly off and jury is still out IMO if this rush defensive system is a good fit. The absense of Lancaster and a settled no. 10 didnt help.

[@thembelanihdlamini5395]

If only there are competitions to prove who is the best team held every season. Sorry but calling Leinster the best team is a mockery to the word "best" I mean I've been watching them play for 3 seasons and the always bottle it. I think Munster have more credibility then them... seeing how Munster have won the URC.

[@KobusVanStaden-j4c]

Ref was complete idiot.. tried his best to help Leinster...

[@kerrylass2]

I dont think he was trying to help anyone in fairness...it was yet again in the URC just bad officiating. URC have GOT to improve their standards.

[@riyaadrhoda3990]

There might as well not have been a ref on the field. He was completely blind and everyone just went for everything they could get away with.

[@TheMornebrink]

@@kerrylass2 I agree, they might as well move the offside line

[@oliver1klein1]

Losing to a Bulls “B” team (given the injuries etc.) is what makes this tough!

[@MeiA-h9r]

I know this is an Irish platform and it has to be Leinster focused But this is such blind analysis, and it won’t point your fans to the right direction and they’ll be more surprises and questions if Ireland get embarrassed against the Boks in July The truth is that the Leinster pack struggled to with the physicality at altitude and it gave them slower ball in attack and had them defending on the back foot. They also couldn’t adapt to the kicking game strategy to have the players running around at altitude which everyone should’ve know they would struggle with being it their first time in those conditions, hence as to why they slowed down towards the end of that game. There needs to be a lot of concern amongst Irish rugby media about this because this pack will have to go up against a Springboks pack with way more talent and physicality plus a better set piece which saw Leinster struggle with in this game against a Bulls team with pups Lastly, they also won’t have the luxary of playing in Europe and with their supporters in the stadium. SA is going to be intense, it’s gonna be dry and the altitude will effect these players plus Boks bring it when they play at home Ask the All Blacks, there’s nothing compared to it

[@SMacCuUladh]

I'm an Irish fan and I agree with you.

[@louisvanniekerk2612]

Good day User there is no better lightheaded in the world than Wilco Louw. Steenkamp and Kitchoff are the best looseheads in RSA . Louw Van Staden and Hanekom are at any time equal to the bok trio. The only difference is at lock where Etzebeth and Snyman will enhance the physical side of things, although Nortje had a wonderful game.

[@Camcolito]

Every time a Saffa team wins we have to listen to sententious pontification, nothing when they lose.

[@MeiA-h9r]

@@Camcolito and every time Ireland wins non meaningful games we have to hear the lies that they are the best team in the world😂😂😂 While there is a team that literally has ownership of the last two World Cups 😂😂😂

[@davesmith826]

@@Camcolito The Irish do enough crowing of their own. Head over to the highlights of their victory over the Boks in the pool stages of the World Cup for more evidence than you could possibly need.

[@rodwellchigome7567]

Now, we need a South African team to conquer Europe next season. As a stormers fan, I'm stoked for the Bulls. Now Bulls need to win so SA does the double with Sharks winning too. All we need is Champions Cup meaning weve cleaned up Europe us less than 5 years.

[@stevenkhumalo7920]

those top french teams always have an edge cause they got the best squad rotation. they never send their A teams to away games. our SA teams don't have that luxury

[@SiyoyoStofile-kw6yh]

Bulls definitely have the depth and coaching nous to challenge in Europe..Sharks could also target Europe due to having all those 2x RWC winners... Stormers very talented but unfortunately are just too loose and tactically naive to make inroads in that comp

[@styx2470]

@@stevenkhumalo7920 Everyone says Leinster lose every year because their A team doesnt have enough game time precisely because they do what you re saying, so it doesnt seem to be the key to win the champions cup

[@decekfrokfr3mdx]

The top French teams (Bordeaux, Toulouse, La Rochelle if they find form again) have packs that are as big or bigger than the South African teams, plus speed in the backs. They can't be physically bullied, at least on home soil.

[@jksinorbit]

We need all the guys playing in european teams to come home for that. You need quality all the way through the squads to win that trophy.

[@gooihom]

The Bulls won the Super Rugby Competition 3 times and are still referred to as minnows. Cracks me up 😂

[@Trajan2401]

3 times is very poor even Australia won it more times.

[@gooihom]

@@Trajan2401 that doesn't make any sense. What does Australia have to do with Super Rugby?

[@Trajan2401]

@@gooihom they won it 4 times.

[@AjaySalmon]

​@@Trajan2401 I was unaware that Australia played super rugby? Never heard of that club in my life. But in terms of Super rugby wins, Crusaders won it the most times (12), and the blues and bulls are tied for winning it the 2nd most times (3), so not too shabby I rate.

[@conorcahill5422]

You're forgetting that they are newcomers to the URC compared to Leinster, who have won that very competition 8x times. Bulls hadn't won it even once, so it made perfect sense to call them minnows. Obviously Leinster have been around this competition far longer than them. Doesn't matter how many times they won the Super Rugby. That's nothing to do with the URC.

[@justinnell1957]

As a Stormers fan I would love my team to be as consistent as Leinster - lost Champions League by a drop goal and URC semi-final by a converted try.

[@business3867]

Man I don't know as a Stormers fan we have been extremely consistent at losing knock out games for years and years. Our most inconsistent season was the one we actually won it.

[@Etain18]

DO'C's pre-match punditry was more like eejitry. I couldn't believe the Avengers v Mighty Ducks comment, nor could I believe that the other panelists sat there and let him get away with it. Do they have no gumption at all? Yes, Jamie's come out with insane stuff in the past, but he could have given Donnacha a gentle warning. Show respect, folks!

[@JohannesHamman]

There hasn't been that much kicking on Loftus since Naas Botha 😂, we surprised Leinster with a different game from the back 3 lead by Willie's performance - that 50:22 was gold. Playing at Loftus is no joke, Bulls were up there in defense and got the job done. 🤜🤛🏆🏆🏆🏆

[@davesmith826]

The Bulls are 'minnows', are they? 😅 The last I checked they'd outscored everyone in the league, including Leinster, and finished above Leinster. The last I checked, they're playing at home, in a stadium that is known throughout the southern hemisphere as a fortress, and they're the most successful South African provincial side in the nation's history. They are 'minnows' to no one. This kind of absurd triumphalism from the Irish 'pundits' does neither their club nor their national side any favours. I say this as someone who is half Irish, half South African. The worst thing you could possibly do when lining up against the men in green (or blue) is write them off. The Boks thrive on pressure and being the underdogs. They play a lot worse when they're branded the favourites. Andy Farrell is smart enough to know this. Many people in and around Irish rugby are not. They're going to find out precisely how good the South Africans are next month, when they return to Loftus to face a team with a stronger pack, a better kicking game, and a superior backline. They also won't have a friendly referee to forgive them multiple infringements. If they put on a performance comparable to what Leinster did on Saturday, they're going to get absolutely annihilated.

[@Wildlife_SA.]

Well said. Can't wait for the test at Loftus. 🇿🇦

[@PB22559]

Leinster put all their focus on winning their 5th star and prioritising the champions cup. They don't value URC titles as much because they were always so easy to come by for a side like Leinster.

[@markdawson4625]

As an England and Harlequins fan I can tell you that it was no surprise to me that Wilco destroyed Porter. He was brilliant at Quins. Leinster/Ireland have been worked out to a degree now and that is their pack can be bullied. (England, La Rochelle, Toulouse etc) The Bulls pushed them around all afternoon starting in the front row. Great job Bulls and no surprise to those who been to Loftus.

[@davesmith826]

@@PB22559 Always so easy to come by - until the South Africans turned up. Now they can't win a URC title or Champions Cup for love nor money. Their strategy of resting first-teamers is also unravelling.

[@PB22559]

@@davesmith826 Correct. There's a level playing field now. Up until now, the French and English sides were at a big disadvantage when it came to competing in the champions cup.

[@geoffhogan4831]

Your analysts, clearly have no idea about South African provincial Rugby. Even with our best players at overseas clubs, the young players coming through are just increasing SA rugby depth.

[@lenrobadenhorst9112]

It is tough to fly out to Loftus and play at altitude. Well done Bulls. Stormers supporter

[@presterjohn4123]

The worst result for the Springboks with Ireland coming over in a few weeks. The Boks May run on against the same Irish players thinking they have already won. Leinster lost this game but it was still a tremendous physical performance from them. Think back. Since Ireland beat AB’s in Chicago their forward packs have had the physicality of Southern Hemisphere teams. The biggest worry, to me, for Leinster and Ireland is they will definitely miss Sexton’s leadership. (Bok fan)

[@davesmith826]

No, the best result we could hope for - a win earned despite some shambolic refereeing and a whole array of dirty tactics displayed by a team that contains much of the Irish XV. This game will be played before the first test as motivation. The hit on Le Roux will be used as motivation. Hanekom's masterclass will be used as motivation - 22 years old and jackling like Malcolm Marx in his prime. The Boks will be right up for this and Rassie will ensure they turn the screw. I think the Irish get turned over. They showed clear signs of weakness in the 6N and their top club sides have both collapsed.

[@harshbutfair8993]

@davesmith826 I'll admit some of our media and fans are delusional, but sounds like we are not the only ones, I'm a disappointed Munster fan, but saying Leinster have collapsed after having been pipped for the Champions Cup, as in only beaten in extra time. Munster topping the table, after winning 9 games in a row, it's hardly a collapse. Saying that, we will be up against it in the two tests, and you could well be right, I'm not optimistic about our chances to be frank. On a positive note for us, the tougher competition the SA teams bring to the competition should be welcomed, think Leinster need to start bringing their A team down to South Africa and use it as an opportunity to get more battle hardened.

[@davesmith826]

@@harshbutfair8993 Unbeaten runs count for nothing if you don't win anything. Munster should have beaten Glasgow and Leinster should have beaten a Bulls side missing six of its first XV, including its captain. I say this as someone who is half Irish, though not a Leinster or Munster fan - my people are from Donegal.

[@Munkey205]

Leinster: chasing the semis Ireland : chasing the quarterfinals Springboks:chasing 3 wc’s in a row

[@darren1989]

Leinster chasing the semis ? What does that mean when they just played a final couple weeks back ?

[@one_eyed_odin]

South Africa : chasing charity

[@darren1989]

Also to be fair ireland population is 6million ..South Africa is 60 million and rugby is Irelands 4th sport so I think we more than punch above our weight

[@davesmith826]

@@darren1989 Ireland definitely punch above their weight.

[@Brazito14]

This silly Leinster club is exactly like their national team. Not sure why this is a shock. Thought it was closer than it should’ve been. Abysmal reffing trying to help Leinster.

[@riyaadrhoda3990]

As soon as Leinster cannot dominate up front they seem to have no plan B. When last have you seen a Leinster scrum being destroyed like that? Whenever Leinster are behind or tight with 10 minutes to go, they cannot take it home. This has happened too many times now

[@ruanniemann2604]

this Bulls team set URC scoring records this year, they have a World Cup winning coach, a legacy of having beaten the B&I Lions twice, dominated Super Rugby for several years, a few of which they were the best team.in the world. They arent the minnows they are made out to be 😂

[@Trajan2401]

3 super rugby titles is very poor even Australia won more.

[@BrettStealth]

@@Trajan2401 oh look, trajan is offended by the truth, and conveniently ignores that the saffas had super rugby loaded against them forever. He prefers it when the kiwis have an easy ride at others expense. Those days are over buddy, no more free lunch.

[@Trajan2401]

@@BrettStealth saffers and their weak excuses no different to us going there and playing at altitude which is worse.

[@johanviljoen4686]

​@@Trajan2401 the bulls only won 3 titles in Super Rugby, but that is unfortunately the same amount of world cups NZ have won. You know who have won more cups? South Africa, that team that only competed in 8 of the 10 world cups and won 50% of them. Kiwis have a reputation of good sportsmanship, but you must be the worst kiwi in the land. Your arrogance and belittling of other teams over the past few months are absolutely disgusting. I really hope you find joy in your life and learn that sport isn't worth anything more than entertainment. Being sour all the time can't be fun.

[@SekuruJohan]

I remember the bulls being a team that was pummeled by everyone in early 2000's in Super Rugby. They were even the first team to go 0-13 for a year (2003 I think). Then Ludeke came in and everything changed. Between 2007 and 2010 they were almost unstoppable, winning 3 out of those 4 years.

[@etienne_oosthuizen]

Bulls winning at Loftus is NOT an upset ... Who ever thinks that is ignorant

[@beetle6323]

Funny the media never speak about the REF wonder why??

[@cecilmahlaba9369]

They know something we don't

[@gordondarker4073]

It's never never never the done thing on the national media in ireland

[@FlyingHellFish99]

Getting to early 90s Buffalo Bills territory 😬

[@ZacD]

Leo Cullen has been progressively getting worse, did shite with Leinster to begin with, had to get Stuart Lancaster to come in and hold his hand, results in some early Silverware, and since then has progressively gotten worse, if Cullen can't manage a team as head coach, step the f down, gotten worse since Lancaster has left predictably!

[@slogsweep4922]

The sheer arrogance of some of the analysis.. That Bulls is as solid as any national team pack and to expect them to roll over because Leinster are in town. Breathtaking

[@gordondarker4073]

Did these panelists say that ?

[@Shamankzn]

Sexton! Not just in the game, but during the week, driving standards. Leinster should try to rope him into some sort of consulting role. That and altitude in an incredibly physical game, given that very few of the Leinster team have ever played at Loftus before, one must wonder if Leo Cullen is not killing the players with kindeness with all the rest they get.

[@PB22559]

Sextons absence didn't make the Leinster scrum go backwards at the rate of knots.

[@thabomazwayi4422]

Bulls have scored the most points in the URC this season. And the Bulls are a great team, with a rich history, so I was shocked when people became too skeptical of them. Leinster will never have a walk over in the URC again, the SA teams only get stronger. Look at the new signings joining the Sharks...Stomers, my Lions team...So Leinster must know that SAFFA teams are in to win it 😅😅😅

[@alankennedy3747]

That can only help the Irish provinces having Saffas in URC. You guys will make us better teams because of it. The Warriors will be sacrificial lambs next weekend if The Bulls do a repeat performance. Rugby wins either way 😊 🏉💙🇮🇪🇿🇦

[@BrettStealth]

@@alankennedy3747 true that. enjoy the new rivalry, makes for lots of fun.

[@CitedMantis1003]

Great Review!

[@duanegreen9569]

The Blue Bulls have a rich history as one of the best club teams in the world. I find it puzzling when everyone forgets history. Plus you have Jake. World class. Both teams are world class. The better team won on the day.

[@Nieljoyceniel]

Rich history? They haven’t won anything since 2010. They have lost 3 finals to Benetton,stormers and Glasgow.

[@markcrossman3356]

Hard luck Leinster. Great job bulls!

[@tomsawyer4321]

They got beat by team that finished higher on the log……..hardly an upset

[@justusbeets5130]

The blueprint is there but the blue bulls print is everywhere

[@NS-nk9hf]

People forget that Leinster is not the only team playing rugby. Other teams are learning and catching up. Well done Bulls.

[@gdr0078]

Leinster same behiavour as the Irish national team. A lot of potential and a lot of upset during the money time... The structuration of Irish rugby is good but something is definitevely missing.

[@lifeOFzeff]

I hope this a sign of things to come. Like the time when the bulls dominated super rugby. That will be awesome!

[@Burninglash]

The attempt to win both URC, and Heineken cup is almost impossible. Bulls picked URC and were criticised for it. URC is not URC of old since SA teams joined the std is way higher. Not enough credit is given to Jake White on the tactical front. One thing that must be addressed is the appalling ref. He missed way to many infringements by both sides. In fairness to Leinster the traveling is tough. The URC should provide a charter plane to facilitate that a team which has to travel in the semi or finals does not get disrupted unfairly.

[@OranBurns-r7c]

Donnacha just compared the bulls to the Offaly gaelic football team 😮 Seeiously!

[@BrettStealth]

its a tough lesson but seems the irish dont know the Bulls nor their rich history. It was alway true that when they were weak then the boks were weak. We Saffas from other regions know the Bulls are not at the level of their teams of old ... yet, but they are never to be underestimated at Loftus.They are emerging from a lean weak period. I wont be surprised if the final sees them go up a level especially at loftus.

[@maori_brotha]

South Africa is the cauldron and Loftus is the ultimate ground to win. If you can make it there, you deserve the title.

[@chrismia2402]

They talking as if Irish Rugby is the be all and end all of world rugby. Can someone let them know that South Africa has been at the top of world rugby and thereabouts for the last 118 years.

[@gordondarker4073]

This panel has done nothing but praise the bulls all this interview, but it's not good enough......what else do you want ?? Do you want us to kiss arse

[@greenplasticgun]

To be fair to Leinster, and to try and claw back a bit of the underdog status for the Boks, Leinster under Cullen aren't the same beast as 'Leinster' under Farrell. You can see the same with the Sharks. So many Boks in that Sharks team, but look at their URC performances under plumtree vs under Rassie. I don't think Rassie and co will let themselves get overconfident for the Irish tour. Our media and fans should do the same.

[@davidian007]

Bulls were better.simple as that.But at the same time.Ireland and leinster are getting figured out more and more.

[@alankennedy3747]

Then it's time to re invent themselves. Smart teams learn. I'm beginning to questions Leo's tactics. Not learning I'm afraid. Time for new management.

[@commentwell3870]

With more SA teams involved over time there will be less and less Leinster and Munster wins....Sharks, Lions will become stronger and the Bulls and Stormers will always be up there challenging....

[@BrettStealth]

nah mate, the Irish are great and have a healthy system, they will also get better. Their teams play spectacular rugger

[@akashaef1]

I'm just here waiting for Rassie to release a new video! Wow that ref was clueless. Really spoilt a good game.

[@neilmontgomery3470]

I'm a Leinster fan but I am really angry about how the team was managed this year. Since the South African teams joined the league you need to make sure you secure a home semi final to stand a decent chance of winning the thing. Leinster prioritized the Champions Cup far too much at the expense of the league Toulouse and La Rochelle do not sacrifice matches in the top 14 so they can win the European Cup. They prioritise the league first and then go for the European competition if they can. They build form and confidence in the league and that momentum can carry them further in the European competition too. Considering all the changes Leinster have gone through this year with Sexton and Lancaster finishing and new coaches starting late Cullen should just have targeted the one competition. You have to be able to do the single before you can even think about doing the double.

[@alankennedy3747]

Big problem is Leinster supplies the Irish team with too many internationals. They can't play 6 Nations and URC at the same time, so any losses during that period can effect them come the business end of the season. I do agree there are times they " cotton wool" their A players for the Champions Cup over URC though. Then we end up with our A players undercooked for the very physical knockout stages while risking league games without them.

[@PB22559]

You're forgetting that teams like Toulouse have way more strength in depth than Leinster have- despite what the media tell you. Toulouses 2nd string side can compete with the very best of sides. Leinster 2nd string 23 got demolished when they went to SA. Reality is starting to catch up with some of you Leinster fans. As soon as the saffers joined the URC, it put all the sides on an even playing field. Up until then, it was far easier for a side like Leinster to do well in the champions cup over the French and English sides because the URC wasn't a priority. Having to compete on both fronts will make getting a 5th star much harder than they originally thought.

[@neilmontgomery3470]

@@PB22559 Do they really? They got hammered by Leinster the last three or four times they played, the same players mind you. The French National team which has plenty of Toulouse players in their rank were humiliated by a Leinster populated Ireland team in the Six Nations only a few months ago. I was at the match in London, it was tight. The only real difference was Dupont. Leinster had more possession, territory and most of the other stats in their favour. If DuPont hadn't had one of his best games ever Leinster would have won that match. Stop talking through your hole! and have the guts to put your name on your comments ye fecking coward.

[@orchard771]

A well deserved win by the Bulls, but what need to be said is the Defensive - reactive coaching by Nienaber is destroying the proactive attacking flair which is Leinsters DNA

[@melthenning9140]

So what's last year's excuse then? Next time, try thinking before typing 😂

[@harshbutfair8993]

Can't blame Nienaber, from what I saw this year a definite improvement in Leinster's defence, it's just the attack has gone backwards, possibly because Lancaster has gone. The attack seems too structured, like Ireland under Joe Schmidt. I'm hoping Ireland's attack will be better in a few weeks, but can't say I have a lot of optimism about actually winning one of these tests. I'd almost take close defeats, might instill a bit of dog in the players again. Leinster players looked composed and ready for the game at the start, whereas Bulls looked pumped and fired up, even like rabid dogs (meant in a good way), and they brought that to the game. Leinster in the cauldron from start to finish.

[@Jan-p4y]

Leinster an amazing team. But having an amazing team doesn't automatically mean a win. Leinster will learn from these 3 seasons and be back stronger. Can see the URC dominating Champions Cup soon. We're all learning playing against each other. Bulls fan 🤘🤘

[@Bobbydyland]

AT this point I think SA teams play Nkalagata after matches they win just to annoy everyone else.

[@RikiLouw69]

So, nothing is made of the shambolic and extremely biased performance from the referee?

[@cornedenecker1636]

Pundits are mostly accurate. I thibk the bigger upset was obviously the semi at home with Sexton playing. But thats just me. Leinster just looked like they didn't care? Like theres no will to win? Its like the leadership is lacking and maybe even the coaching.

[@TheSiyasss]

your biggest mistake is not knowing anything about your opponent

[@seamus9750]

Exciting weekend ahead with Boks v Wales and Bulls v Scotland 😅

[@Wide-eye]

Joke some time ago. Where does the Scots stay when they visit SA ? With their family.

[@themadpants781]

Stadium DJ doing Leinster dirty with Zombie playing there. lol

[@gordondarker4073]

Wrong , the munster girl ( who died tragically) would have been proud to have this played at Loftus, , it's played at most munster games as well.....along with the fields of athenry which is about English oppression in our country

[@kenrehill8775]

The Ireland and Leinster bra - loads of support, no cups.

[@Nieljoyceniel]

B2b six nations for ireland, Leinster the 2nd most successful club in Europe. Way better than the English

[@nox6885]

Why is this an upset? That's what gets these South African teams up. Leinster lost to the Bulls 2 years ago at home, that was an upset maybe but even then, I believed this Leinster team can be put to the sword as long as you stay close to them. Obviously easier said than done but these Bulls players are hella talented. Well done Bulls. A final at FNB Stadium would've been crazy

[@chrismia2402]

Do these guys actually follow rugby? The Bulls weren’t the better team on the day, they are the better team period. No surprises at all, kind of expected actually.

[@Kenny-zn6dl]

O'Callaghan is beginning to sound like the other pair of arrogant 'pundits ' beside him, leinster are now easy opposition for a lot of teams now, they have no plan B , a toothless attack and a head coach that seems to be immune to either criticism or getting the sack, our regional teams are on the slide and I fear after next month's tour our national team could follow same route.

[@PB22559]

Spot on. I've been saying this for a while. When the usual multiphase attack isn't going to plan, they have nothing else. Disrupt the speed of their breakdown and they're toast. Ulster have had a horrible season. Munster are losing key players next season. Connacht seem to have gone backwards too. Irish rugby isn't in a good place if you ask me and I don't think we'll see them winning either test against SA. Ireland don't produce enough x factor players, especially in the back line.

[@314159265mangler]

@@PB22559you’re waaay too pessimistic. As a Saffa supporter Ireland will give as good as they get in the tests. SA have 9 players out due to injury. Even with all the front liners fit a series win against Ireland would be a big challenge. Leinster may have many of the same personnel but Ireland will be a different animal entirely come the test matches. You heard it here first ;-)

[@PB22559]

@@314159265mangler Nah. Sides have figured out how to counteract the Irish style of play. They'll do well on the possession stats but they're not as good as they were at turning that possession into pts. They go through phase after phase but gain little ground and the Boks will lap that up all day. Out wide, they have no x factor players that can create something from nothing. When Ire faced NZ in NZ, their ability to score tries from mauls from 5mt out was second to none. That's where they were gaining a big advantage over other sides. Their set piece just isn't clicking like it used to. The breakdown is the key to their quick ruck ball game. The Boks know this, they'll bide their time and eventually turn ball over or force the mistake.

[@brettfleiner4906]

It must be rough being an Irish rugby fan, knowing your teams have everything it takes to be champions but constantly having to cope with just not getting across the line.

[@niallsheehan474]

Yeah but at least the lights come on when asked

[@driesdiamond5016]

Like the proteas

[@nicobr00]

@niallsheehan474 lol, your coach’s lights unfortunately also didn’t turn on. Leinster attack is so predictable

[@niallsheehan474]

@@nicobr00 I can smell candle grease

[@jan7539]

​@@niallsheehan474cant lie this is pretty funny😂 Its an election year, so our lights have been mostly on👍😂

[@homonaledi640]

Next time you come to loftus you will know

[@theosokupa2861]

Bulls is a fucking big club …..big history and big money behind them …..so I don’t understand how this was an upset …..Leinster is a big club in Ireland and bulls are a big club in the southern hemisphere …..

[@GysbertDewet]

Stop underestimating South Africa and their clubs, this arrogance has to stop. They are one of the best rugby Nations in the world. Never think they are average. Always expect that they can beat you! Show respect be humble, that is a big change that Irish rugby needs.

[@christoduplessis8177]

I am South African but I am a Lion. Let me tell you, if you play a knock out game at Loftus the Bulls are always favourites. If you don't know that from the outset you need to rethink if you know rugby at all. Even when New Zealand put 50 on the Boks the Crusaders were still struggling to win at Loftus. Don't ever make that mistake again.

[@richardspence5316]

Leinster are the blue eye boys of Irish Rugby. Resourced to the max, making up the vast majority of the Ireland match day 23, and yet, over the past several years they have been an absolute failure. In both European and domestic rugby. This Leinster bias from IRFU will be the ultimate undoing of our national side.

[@DM-rp9ik]

Undoing how they're the most successful Irish side ever for all the failure this season they still won the six nations

[@rethabileshai507]

Imgaine having the ref on your side and still losing

[@kevinsacks5640]

Some more perspective, Bulls without Marcel Coetzee , Arendse ,Moodie, Gans . And the Scottish Referee did the Bulls absolutely no favour. He was atrocious, and favoured Leinster for 80 minutes.

[@randomlyfactual1943]

What the pundits maybe don't know, is that Loftus isn't a rugby field; it is a fortress.

[@MiguelGomes-kg6ml]

Don’t come to our patch and call us the underdogs! Bulls at Loftus are just another proposition, even if the ref tried his best to give Leinster the win!

[@Alex-xk7my]

As a neutral it feels like Leinster don’t experience enough adversity during the regular part of the season which means they come unstuck at the business end. All the 45-0 wins are not doing them any favours…

[@stanleywilliams5893]

Lienster supporters can show the French how to lose like men

[@hannesbornman1045]

Now that the tide(Sexton) is out, we can see Leinster has been skinny dipping. Ross Byrne isn't a Sexton. They didn't play knockout rugby when they needed to, which seems to be a recurring theme with Ireland. Sorry Leinster.

[@jessearries5113]

😂😂what a great watch. Humbled

[@MartinJames-s3n]

Leinster lost this game weeks ago when they sent a second string team to play in South Africa and lost both matches and dropped in the league and home advantage in the semi final.

[@quaziforus]

Bulls have been a top team for decades dude.

[@jameswright9513]

General Goosen 👍👍👍

[@mahasamatman12]

Jamie "down to 13 men" Heaslip is such a great pundit 🤣

[@SAnd-pd1ou]

He's embarrassing. Irish teams only have to turn up according to him

[@Kevin-lf4xx]

He looks totally devastated once again.No doubt Cullen will get the usual free pass from the media.

[@alankennedy3747]

Jamie Heap o' Shit. An embarrassment.

[@Dan-e4c5e]

The worst

[@MoerseBokbaas1]

😂just blame the loss on the saffa 😂easy excuse😂and here i thought the saffa was the defence guy😂.isnt goodman the attack 🤔 guy

[@hc8299]

Leo has one last season. He’s gone from an excellent attack with no out and out defence coach. This season no out and out attack coach but all defence. Is actually comical. Crazy tactics every big game. It’s actually laughable

[@atoms-to-atoms]

Bulls fans have let them down

[@williambotha5864]

You know, as a Saffer I would willingly trade our pundits and fans for the Irish pundits and their fans. The objectivity and insight of the Irish seems to stand alone in the Rugby world.

[@christoduplessis8177]

Said no one ever 🤦‍♂️

[@williambotha5864]

@@christoduplessis8177 It's an opinion, poephol

[@christoduplessis8177]

@@williambotha5864 so is mine jou dom poes, vang op jy is agter.

[@williambotha5864]

@@christoduplessis8177 poephol, dom poes, what's next ? ... and you wonder why I don't rate South African rugby fans?

[@christoduplessis8177]

@@williambotha5864 it isn't my fault you are a dom poes, and what the rest of SA rugby fandom has to do with you being a dom poes is even more unclear.

[@Shamo-yc4vy]

After three years with SA teams in the URC why is this the first time playing the URC in SA for so many Leinster players? Whats the point to have SA teams in URC if they won't let them experience playing in SA?

[@SteveWarlee]

Who's the mutton dressed up as lamb ??

[@harshbutfair8993]

Your ma!

[@daviiidoff]

Agree with Donnachadh o tanallaghan for once

[@Uwe-gb6nt]

Leo cullen must go.

[@MrMarkshortt]

Leinster lost this tournament on their initial visit to SA (Lions and Stormers). A) Dreadful team selection, and B), dreadful performance by the team that were selected. From there it was an uphill battle that shouldn't have happened. Leo is sleepwalking into the same mistake year on year. Jesus, pick your best side and get them battle hardened. How many years to you run with the same failed plan before you realise it's just a shit plan.

[@FareedLoyiso]

Bulls out dominated Irish forward pack

[@johanlabuschagne1061]

Op Loftes sal julle opgan.....i word

[@nox6885]

Best rugby club in the world my ass. 😂😂😂. Its simple, the best teams in any sport win semis and finals. Leinster just don't do that really. Loftus is a tough place to go play rugby and it was only half full.

[@SteveWarlee]

Best team won, not loftus

[@TheMornebrink]

Im a big Stormers fan, but this Bulls team is something else, Johan Goosen was fantastic, Hanekom, holy shit.... Nothing but respect for this team, bulss fans are still dumbasses though lol

[@ChrisCK90]

Sure this show is for the irish ppl and fans of irish rugby but just a small side note.. Bulls will never be the underdogs at loftus nor will the boks be when you're coming to get whipped all Irish rugby related talk their teams up so much but the thing is you will never be what you talk yourselfs up to be ireland beat the boks in last 4 sure in that time we added 2 world cups.. Your win rate in south africa is 13%??settle down you're not close to being on all blacks or boks level won't ever be either

[@harshbutfair8993]

Commas and full stops, they are not an optional extra, otherwise your writing is close to gibberish.

[@E.Cantona]

Cullen needs to go

[@cleolucas4359]

Die Bulle is Sterk

[@briangovender7435]

South Africa won 4 world cup and how many Ireland as won?

[@stiofain88]

They also win at apartheid and crime.

[@njabulov.hadebe9102]

Being too critical and are not giving the bulls their flowers. Bulls pitched up and beat leinster. Simple truth. Youre due for a history lesson on Loftus. That place is a fortress.