Brilliant Bulls beat Bristol in Champions Cup

The full-back was impressive from the off as Vodacom Bulls hit the ground running, with an explosive start culminating in a sixth-minute penalty from Johan Goosen.

Even after Goosen was shown a yellow card three minutes later for a deliberate knock-on, the visitors kept pushing, with wing Sergeal Petersen crossing in the corner in the 14th minute, converted by David Kriel who took on kicking duties.

But Bristol Bears got themselves back in it, with scrum-half Kieran Marmion’s 19th-minute try down the right converted by AJ MacGinty.

Vodacom Bulls started the second half brighter, with a try from replacement prop Khutha Mchunu from close range – his first for the team.

They stepped up a gear, with flanker Elrigh Louw’s 63rd-minute try followed swiftly by one from hooker Jan-Hendrik Wessels in an impressive display of pace that confirmed the bonus point for Vodacom Bulls.

Goosen made amends for his earlier absence, converting all three second-half tries.

After a yellow card for Louw seven minutes from time, Bristol Bears were looking to grab a bonus point even if the win was lost – and hooker Gabriel Ibitoye crossed the line as the hosts sought to finish with a flourish.

But when Magnus Bradbury crossed the line to score the hosts’ third, it was too little too late – the clock had already ticked down into the red.

Bristol Bears now face a crucial clash at Connacht Rugby in Round 4 next week, while Vodacom Bulls will face the high-flying Union Bordeaux Bègles.