Leinster’s URC final at Croke Park was more a statement than a match—32–7 over the Bulls, ending a four-year silverware drought. From the outset, they bulldozed through the Bulls’ defense, racking up three unanswered tries in the first half to set the tone .
Captain Jack Conan led by example early, mauling over for the opener. Soon after, Jordie Barrett sprinted in off a clever kick, leaving the Bulls’ backline stranded. A dominant scrum and superior line-out play around the 20‑minute mark culminated in another forward’s try—Josh van der Flier continuing Leinster’s front-eight onslaught.
Although the Bulls finally scratched onto the scoreboard with an Akker van der Merwe try early in the second half, hope was fleeting. Leinster answered swiftly with consistent pressure and accurate kicking—Sam Prendergast adding penalties while Fintan Gunne capped it off with a late bonus‑point try. The 46,127 crowd roared as Leinster claimed their ninth title across all formats.
What made this win so sweet? It erased memories of recent heartbreak—three Champions Cup final losses (2022–24) and the 2024 URC semis disappointment. Coach Leo Cullen embraced the critics, saying, “Keep the abuse coming, we don’t mind,” and his side responded by executing one of the most clinical displays in URC history.
Springbok fans were left frustrated as the Bulls sputtered—uncharacteristically sloppy, conceding penalties, and never really threatening. Leinster, conversely, played like the benchmark of club rugby—disciplined, powerful, and ruthless.
This win signals a new era for Leinster: a reassertion of dominance and a springboard toward European glory. Meanwhile, the Bulls must re-evaluate and refocus, having come up short once again. Leinster are back, and they’re back with a bang.
My Goat Sports 