Pretoria: All Blacks defeat Bulls 50-19 in Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour

By Charlie Bradshaw — 15 August 2026 — 3 min read

The All Blacks secured a 50-19 victory over the Bulls in Pretoria, scoring eight tries in their latest Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour fixture. This match served as a warm-up for the upcoming first test against the Springboks. The New Zealand side demonstrated strong control throughout the game, building on previous wins against the Stormers (38-21) and the Sharks (54-0).

The All Blacks’ performance was described as their most impressive all-round display on the tour. Their set-piece was solid, and they effectively dominated the breakdown. The team also showed improved discipline during the match, which saw them face a Bulls side that was reportedly depleted.

Dominant First Half Performance

The All Blacks initiated the scoring with a try from wing Josh Moorby, who crossed the line following a backline move designed to counter the Bulls’ rush defence. Moorby then added a second try to his name. The Bulls faced further setbacks when prop Francois Klopper received a yellow card for repeated infringements within their own 22-meter area.

Following Klopper’s yellow card, hooker and captain Codie Taylor dived over for a try after a quick-tap penalty from five yards out. The All Blacks’ effectiveness at the breakdown led to several turnovers and errors from the Bulls. Taylor capitalized on another possession win, scoring his second try to establish a 24-0 lead for the visitors by halftime, marking a dominant first half.

The Bulls managed to score the first try of the second half, with lock Ruan Vermaak powering over. The try was awarded by referee Nika Amashukeli, who upheld his original decision despite a perceived knock-on suggested by television match official Eric Gauzins from France.

Second Half Momentum and Final Tries

Normal service for the All Blacks resumed after the Bulls’ score. Wing Leroy Carter contributed two tries, while centre Rieko Ioane and loose-forward Wallace Sititi each added a try, pushing the team past the 50-point mark. The All Blacks’ scoring was completed late in the game by Sititi, rounding off an impressive victory at Loftus Versfeld.

Captain Codie Taylor acknowledged the physicality of the game against the Bulls, stating that the Springboks would elevate the tempo and physicality further in the upcoming test match. He noted that while there were some mistakes, the team had now played three games and experienced South African rugby, which he believes has prepared them well for the test series.

Beauden Barrett, playing at fullback, showed a performance closer to his best, demonstrating his passing range and assisting in the opening try. Despite a missed tackle that allowed Stravino Jacobs to score for the Bulls, Barrett’s overall contribution was solid. Leroy Carter delivered a lively display, making a significant break for the first try and showcasing strong aerial ability. His finishing was precise, including a score in the corner and a second from close range.

Rieko Ioane was a consistent threat in attack, making strong runs and creating dangerous opportunities. He also provided a smart pass that led to one of Carter’s tries before scoring one himself. Anton Lienert-Brown, while involved in attack, had a quieter game compared to some of his teammates but still made 12 carries. Josh Moorby’s two tries, one a decent finish and the other a simple tap-in, were key contributions.

Fly-half Josh Jacomb made a strong case for a starting role, impressing with his quick hands, high-tempo approach, and composure under pressure. He handled kicks effectively and provided a neat offload for Carter’s second try. Scrum-half Cortez Ratima maintained a high tempo during his 40-minute stint, with his play primarily through his hands, which helped the team stay on top. The first test against the world champion Springboks is scheduled for next Saturday in Johannesburg.

Source: rnz.co.nz