The Crusaders proved why they are absolute legends in this competition with irresistible play and why they are unbeaten at home for the better part of three seasons. The Bulls did, however, make life difficult for themselves with uncharacteristic errors.

They suffered in at scrum time especially and the difference the absence of Kees Lensing has made was especially obvious. The Crusaders obviously learnt their lessons from the previous encounter with the Bulls where they were given lessons in the line-out. This time, the roles were reversed and it was the Bulls who had a hard time securing their own ball.

The most disappointing from a Bulls perspective, however, will be the amount of turnovers they conceded. This proved the difference between the two sides in the end.

All the Bulls will be able to take out of the match would be the fact that they never gave up and actually played the better rugby in the last 20 minutes, but by that time, the match was already won and lost.

But these signs were promising and with youngsters like Pierre Spies proving their worth, there is no reason for the Bulls to go one better next year, provided that they can keep the squad together.

Points:
Vodacom Bulls: Tries: Bryan Habana, Pierrie Spies. Conversion: Morné Steyn. Penalty: Steyn.
Crusaders: Tries: Rico Gear (2), Chris Jack, Corey Flynn, Aaron Mauger. Conversions: Daniel Carter (2). Penalty: Carter. Drop Goal: Carter.