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Match Highlights - Pollard inspires Bulls, Stormers edge to slender win
By Rob Lancaster
Handre Pollard was instrumental as the Bulls eased to a 30-12 Super Rugby victory over the Lions at Ellis Park on Saturday, while the Stormers edged out the Sharks 16-11.
Duane Vermeulen and Warrick Gelant scored tries for the Bulls, but it was Pollard's kicking precision which proved decisive.
The 24-year-old plundered 20 points with his boot to ensure that Carlu Sadie and Dylan Smith's tries for the hosts, who have been runners-up in the past three Super Rugby finals, proved futile.
"It was a great team effort," said Pollard.
"I did not expect to win by such a wide margin given the Lions' record against us [the Lions have won their last four meetings].
"Everyone contributed and I want to give special praise to Eli Snyman [who replaced injured captain Lood de Jager]. He had big shoes to fill and lasted the full 80 minutes."
At Kings Park in Durban, meanwhile, the Stormers did just enough to inflict a first defeat of the season on the Sharks.
The Stormers got their reward for a bright start when full-back Damian Willemse intercepted to score the only try of the first half.
Sarel Petrus Marais added two penalties to extend the Stormers' lead, but Lukhanyo Am set up a tense finale with a try for the Sharks.
A second penalty from Robert Du Preez reduced the Stormers' lead to 13-11, but another Marais penalty ensured maximum points for the visitors.
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Latest Comments
The New Zealand performance in the return fixture in 2016 was filthy. A lot of Irish supporters were pretty shocked by it, viewed it as de facto cheating just to avoid another defeat.
Also shocked by the abuse to Ireland, captain, vice-captain and spectators after the full time whistle in Paris defeat, last match.
Sledging is sledging, but that happens during the game and targetting spectators should be completely out of bounds.
The Irish public used to enjoy these matches, even in defeat. Now they are necessary but unpleasant, because NZ apparently cannot accept or respect successful challengers.
Go to commentsThanks for the analysis Nick, thought provoking as usual. Couple of queries though, in the pic where you've circled Williams bind , I'm pretty sure it shows Stuart's knee on the ground, surely that's a NZ penalty? Also having had the chance to watch it again the All Black scrum seeems to improve after halftime, but before either England or the All Blacks replace their props. Not sure if that was the result of Tuipolutu coming on or some halftime tips. Either way this is only Williams second international season, so he'll be better for the experience.
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