Leinster Crush Bulls to Claim URC Glory and End Four-Year Trophy Drought
What a night it was at Croke Park—an atmosphere charged with anticipation, and Leinster absolutely delivered. After four long years of waiting, the boys in blue are champions again, and in the most convincing fashion imaginable. They dismantled the Pretoria Bulls 32-7 to claim their ninth United Rugby Championship title, and their first since 2021. It wasn’t just a win—it was a statement.
From the very first whistle, Leinster meant business. You could see it in their energy, their focus, and the way they pressed every single ruck and tackle. Within just 22 minutes, they had already raced out to a 19-0 lead. Jack Conan set the tone with an early try, followed by Jordie Barrett and Josh van der Flier, with Sam Prendergast adding the conversions. The Bulls, known for their physical dominance, looked stunned. Leinster weren't just matching them—they were outmuscling them.
Despite a brief surge from the Bulls early in the second half, including a try from Akker van der Merwe, the South Africans were never truly in it. Fintan Gunne, stepping up brilliantly in the absence of Jamison Gibson-Park, capped off the night with a well-taken try in the 72nd minute. Ross Byrne sealed the scoreline with a late conversion, and by then the celebrations were already beginning in the stands.
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Ryan Baird was a force of nature once again. Named player of the match for the second consecutive game, his performance was nothing short of heroic. His physicality, lineout control, and relentless tackling defined Leinster’s dominance. He wasn’t alone—every man in a blue jersey brought intensity, hunger, and pride.
The victory also carried emotional weight. This wasn’t just about winning a trophy. It was about redemption. Leinster had come so close so many times in recent years. Europe had slipped away again this season, but this URC title offered a chance to silence critics, to honour departing legends like Cian Healy, and to prove to themselves that the fire still burns.
Jack Conan spoke after the match about the relief and pride in finally getting over the line. “We showed up today,” he said, “and we performed. We needed to.” The team’s unity was clear when injured captain Caelan Doris and retiring stalwart Healy were brought up to lift the trophy. A classy gesture from a classy side.
For the Bulls, it’s another final defeat—three now in five seasons. They were simply outplayed in every department. Jake White and his team have work to do to bounce back, but credit must go to Leinster for not giving them an inch.
Tonight was more than just a win. It was a reminder of what Leinster rugby stands for—power, skill, resilience, and pride. The drought is over. The roar is back.
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