The penultimate round of SA Under-21 Cup league fixtures was contested over the past weekend, which resulted in victories for the log-leading Vodacom Bulls and their nearest challengers, DHL Western Province, while there were also two important matches played in the U21 Shield competition.
SA U21 Cup holders, the Vodacom Bulls, secured the top spot on the log by beating the Toyota Cheetahs by 38-27 in an entertaining encounter at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria. The hosts outscored the Free Staters by six tries to three following a comfortable 21-3 halftime lead.
As a result of their final league matches, the Bulls and WP have booked their places in the semi-finals, which will happen on 15 October, while the two remaining places in the top four will be determined this coming weekend.
The Toyota Cheetahs face the Lions in Bloemfontein on Friday, and that match will be followed by Saturday’s encounter in Potchefstroom between the Leopards and the Cell C Sharks.
The winners of both matches should secure their place in the semi-finals scheduled for 15 October 2022. The Leopards, however, could still qualify for the semi-finals if they earn two bonus points and lose with less than seven points against the Cell C Sharks in Potchefstroom.
Currently, Vodacom Bulls are in first place on 21points, followed by DHL WP (19), the Lions and Leopards (both on nine points), Cell C Sharks (six) and the Toyota Cheetahs (four).
