Tricky juggling period awaits Bulls in URC playoff race

SOME Bulls fans on social media bemoaned the fact that the Pretoria side opted not to kick a late penalty at goal in last week’s epic victory over Glasgow Warriors in Scotland.

- ASHFAK MOHAMED

The outcry came about as another three-pointer would’ve denied the defending champions a valuable losing bonus point.

It ended 26-19 at Scotstoun Stadium, which meant that Glasgow remained a point ahead of the Bulls on the United Rugby Championship log on 59, compared to 58 for the third-placed South Africans.

But there was method to the madness.

Coach Jake White explained afterwards that it was a case of securing the victory rather than risking a possible draw, as the ball could have bounced off the uprights or landed in Glasgow's hands, from which they could launch a counter-attack.

Imagine if the Scottish club scored from there and snatched a draw?

White added that the home side also had the necessary momentum after scoring two quick tries, and it was the end of a four-week tour where the South Africans were delighted to finish with three victories.

The other major reason was the fact that Glasgow’s last two league matches are away from home against tough opponents: Benetton in Treviso and log-leaders Leinster in Dublin on May 10 and 17 respectively.

Benetton will be fighting for their lives in the playoff race as they are currently eighth on 41 points - only ahead of ninth-placed Munster on points difference - after being dismantled 56-5 by the Stormers in Cape Town last weekend.

So, even if Glasgow somehow pull off a win in Italy, it is unlikely to be with a four-try bonus point.

Then they take on Leinster, who may already have secured the No 1 spot by then, but wouldn't want to lose easily on their home ground.