From Humiliation to Redemption: Leinster’s URC Test Against the Bulls

Leinster were humbled 35-0 by the Stormers in Round 1, but now face a physical Vodacom Bulls side in a must-win clash. Can the champions steady themselves, or will the Bulls compound their misery?

By Matthew Parke | Sports Correspondent | October 2025

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This Saturday brings one of the standout fixtures of Round 2 in the 2025/26 United Rugby Championship, as last season’s champions Leinster meet runners-up the Vodacom Bulls. The two sides met in last year’s final, and while that clash was cagey, the stakes this time are different: Leinster are already under pressure after a shock opening-round defeat, while the Bulls are hungry to avenge their heartbreak.

Leinster’s campaign began in disastrous fashion, suffering a 35-0 dismantling at the hands of the Stormers. It was their first scoreless outing since 2008, and their set-piece crumbled under relentless pressure. Rabah Slimani conceded six penalties at the scrum, while the lineout faltered and Leinster were dominated physically, conceding 105 more post-contact metres than their opponents.

The backline offered little threat, starved of possession and pinned deep in their own 22. Fly-half Sam Prendergast endured a torrid afternoon, missing six tackles and struggling to influence play. Discipline compounded the misery, with Max Deegan and Tommy O’Brien both shown yellow cards as Leinster finished with 16 penalties against them.

Head coach Leo Cullen admitted his disappointment afterwards, urging his side to “dust themselves off and go again.” That response must come quickly, as the Bulls arrive with momentum after a thrilling 53-40 win over the Ospreys.

The Bulls’ hallmark is their physicality, especially at scrum time — traditionally one of their great weapons. But Leinster proved in last year’s final that they can meet that challenge head-on. Still, with both sides missing key internationals due to Lions and Rugby Championship commitments, squad depth will be tested. Leinster have made seven changes, overhauling both props and their back row, while the Bulls have adjusted more conservatively with three tweaks.

For Leinster, Saturday is about more than just points on the board. It is a chance for their younger players to show they can step up when stars are absent — a crucial factor if they are to chase European glory later this season. For the Bulls, it is an opportunity to flip the script on last year’s final, and prove they can bully the champions again.

Either way, this clash promises a fierce statement from one side — redemption, or further downfall.