Handré Pollard Rescues Bulls with Late Heroics in Gruelling Away Victory Over Scarlets

Handré Pollard scores 18 points as the Bulls survive a disciplinary crisis and a disallowed try to beat the Scarlets in Wales. Read the full URC match report.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 27, 2026, 4:08 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

Pollard’s Pedigree Shines in Wales

In a match defined by high tension and disciplinary challenges, the Bulls’ decision to lean on the experience of Handré Pollard paid dividends at Parc y Scarlets. The double World Cup winner orchestrated a narrow two-point victory, culminating in a match-winning penalty goal in the final minute of play. This performance ensures that Johan Ackermann’s side returns to South Africa with nine log points from their two-match Welsh tour, following a dominant display against the Dragons the previous week. The result is a critical boost for the franchise as they prepare for a final home stretch against Zebre and Benetton.

A Fast Start Met by Welsh Resilience

The Bulls initiated the contest with clinical precision, as winger Cheswill Jooste finished a sharp inside pass from Harold Vorster to score in the third minute. However, the Scarlets demonstrated significant resilience, finding rhythm through their backline to respond with tries from Callum Woolley and Eddie James. The lead fluctuated throughout the first half until Pollard showcased his individual brilliance, finishing a multi-phase attack sparked by a line-break from Embrose Papier. With Pollard’s successful conversions, the Bulls entered the interval with a slim 14-10 advantage.

Disciplinary Lapses and the Numerical Deficit

The second half presented a severe test of the Bulls' defensive organization as they were reduced to 13 men following a flurry of yellow cards. Stedman Gans was first sent to the bin for cynical play, followed shortly by Francois Kloppers for an offside infringement that halted a near-certain Scarlets try. The hosts capitalized on the overlap through captain Fletcher Anderson, who powered over to reclaim the lead. Despite the disadvantage, the Bulls managed to stabilize their set piece, which became the platform for Pollard to chip away at the scoreboard through three second-half penalty goals.