Louw v Porter among key match-ups that will decide Bulls v Leinster

LEINSTER are undoubted favourites, but the Bulls will be going all out to end their United Rugby Championship trophy drought by emerging victorious in Saturday’s final against Leinster in Dublin.

- ASHFAK MOHAMED

Here are five terrific player match-ups that will have a major influence on proceedings at Croke Park (6pm SA time kick-off)...

Canan Moodie v James Lowe

Springbok wing Moodie has spent quite a bit of time at outside centre this year, but is back in his favourite No 14 jersey in what will be a thrilling duel against Irish star Lowe.

Moodie’s biggest strength will be contesting the ball in the air, and he will be chasing those up-and-unders from Embrose Papier and Johan Goosen with glee.

The 22-year-old from Paarl must also take on Lowe with ball-in-hand, as his 1.9m frame will be hard to mark for Lowe.

But the former Chiefs speedster from New Zealand has the pace and huge kicking game to be a constant threat on attack for the hosts too.

Embrose Papier v Jamison Gibson-Park

While the forwards will feel they decide the results of rugby matches, the two scrumhalves will have a massive effect on the final.