Bulls captain Pierre Spies was gracious in defeat after his side's unbeaten run this season came to a grinding halt against the Crusaders on Saturday.
The Crusaders emerged from their early season lethargy with a vengeance, hammering the Bulls 41-19 in Christchurch.
The seven-times Super Rugby champions, in their first home match of the season, scored six tries to one as they notched up their first win in 2013 by running the South African side to a standstill.
It was not a perfect performance from the Crusaders, with multiple errors, but it contained enough pace and venom to show their early losses to the Blues and Hurricanes were an aberration.
The Bulls went into the match brimming with confidence after their impressive win last week over the Blues but had no answer to the power and speed of the Crusaders' high-octane game.
"They kept us out of our game," said Spies
"In the line-outs they were very good. The scrums they also put us under pressure. Also, we couldn't get out of our half. We kept playing in our own half and you can't build any proper momentum so credit to them for that."
Crusaders captain Kieran Read said while his side were guilty of not looking after the ball in the first half, their effort could not be faulted.
"Certainly the intent was great and showed when we get it right we can be really dangerous."
Comments
paulynz says...
Never been that impressed with Spies as a player but I thought he played well in this game.
Posted 07:17 18th March 2013
nefari says...
I don't think the bulls need to be embarrassed, crusaders played 140% and was a really difficult game. The problem with the bulls are still with the front row, I'm really hoping marcel van der merwe will come in the side and make a huge impression in May, bulls can still hold their heads high, but will need to improve against the reds, let's see what serfontein can do!
Posted 13:25 17th March 2013
TheRoof says...
About time!! Onwards and upwards
Posted 10:30 17th March 2013
passtheball says...
Spies, who is currently playing very well, was generous in his compliments. I think the Reds will be easier.
Posted 07:23 17th March 2013
melkdave says...
Have to say ,that looked more like the Crusaders we all know today,never looked like they where in trouble or like losing at anytime.A good team performance ,and regular momentum restored.
Posted 16:45 16th March 2013