The United Rugby Championship (URC) quarter-finals delivered a weekend of exhilarating rugby, marked by high-scoring affairs, tactical masterclasses, and dramatic conclusions. Here’s an in-depth look at each match and a preview of the upcoming semi-finals.
Quarter-Final Summary
Glasgow Warriors 36–18 Stormers (Friday, May 30)
The Glasgow Warriors delivered an impressive attacking performance to defeat the Stormers at Scotstoun Stadium. Although the visitors initially controlled the game, Glasgow’s backline, highlighted by exceptional contributions from Sione Tuipulotu, Josh McKay, and Kyle Rowe (who scored two tries), shifted the momentum. A crucial turning point occurred when Seabelo Senatla received a yellow card, enabling Glasgow to take advantage, with Rory Darge scoring shortly thereafter. The Warriors’ diverse and sharp play proved too much for the Stormers’ defense, earning them a place in the semi-finals.
Bulls 42–35 Edinburgh (Saturday, May 31)
In an exhilarating match held in Pretoria, the Bulls narrowly defeated Edinburgh in a game filled with points. Edinburgh began with a strong performance, taking a 21–8 lead within the initial 30 minutes, largely due to impressive displays from Ross Thompson and Wes Goosen. Nevertheless, a swift comeback featuring five tries from the Bulls, spearheaded by Cameron Hanekom, altered the course of the game. Although Edinburgh managed to score late tries, the Bulls’ relentless intensity was ultimately the deciding factor, allowing them to
progress to the semi-finals.
Leinster 33–21 Scarlets (Saturday, May 31)
Leinster achieved a place in the semi-finals with a 33–21 victory against Scarlets at the Aviva Stadium. Although they managed to score three of their four tries early in each half, Leinster’s display was hindered by carelessness and inconsistency. Coach Leo Cullen selected ten British & Irish Lions, underscoring the difference in team quality. Nevertheless, the team’s lack of composure and a muted atmosphere due to low attendance played a role in their difficulties. Scarlets, competing in their first URC knockout match since 2018, fought valiantly, characterized by robust defense and impressive attacking efforts.
Sharks 24–24 Munster (Sharks win shootout) (Saturday, May 31)
In a thrilling quarter-final held in Durban, the Sharks emerged victorious against Munster in a contentious kicking shootout following a 24–24 tie in both regulation and extra time. Munster were ahead 21–10 with just 18 minutes left on the clock, but the Sharks managed to equalise with late tries. The match then advanced to a high-pressure shootout, during which the Sharks successfully converted all their attempts, whereas Munster’s Rory Scannell failed to convert one. The shootout was overshadowed by controversy, as Munster players expressed visible frustration over the efforts made by Sharks players and coaches to distract them.
URC Semi-Final Previews – Saturday, June 7, 2025
Leinster vs. Glasgow Warriors
Venue: Aviva Stadium, Dublin
Kick-off: 14:45 BST (13:45 GMT)
Leinster approaches this semi-final as the top seed, yet they face considerable pressure. Although they triumphed over the Scarlets with a score of 33–21 in the quarter-finals, their performance was less than convincing. The Dublin-based team, featuring a lineup filled with Irish internationals and British & Irish Lions, encountered difficulties in establishing fluency in their attack and cohesion in their defense. Head coach Leo Cullen acknowledged after the match that they were “a little off,” suggesting a potential lack of sharpness that may have arisen from recent rest periods for key players following European Cup matches.
Anticipate Leinster to field their strongest team, with prominent players such as James Ryan, Josh van der Flier and Jamison Gibson-Park expected to start. Their forward pack continues to be one of the most formidable in the competition, and their tactical kicking strategy—managed by either Ross Byrne or Ciarán Frawley—has the capability to confine opponents deep within their own territory.
Nevertheless, Leinster has previously faltered at this stage, particularly during last year’s semi-final elimination, which introduces a psychological factor. Will they be able to surmount their semi-final hurdles?
Glasgow has quietly formed one of the most efficient and entertaining teams in the URC. Their 36–18 victory over the Stormers in the quarter-finals was arguably the most comprehensive performance of the round. Under the guidance of head coach Franco Smith, they have developed into true title contenders through fast-paced, intelligent rugby.
Playmakers such as Sione Tuipulotu and Huw Jones bring creativity and strength to the midfield, while the back three—Josh McKay, Kyle Rowe, and Steyn are lethal on the counterattack. Although their forward pack may not be the heaviest, they play with aggression and speed, frequently outmaneuvering larger teams.
Glasgow may be considered underdogs, but they have previously triumphed over Leinster and will eagerly seize the opportunity to do so again at the Aviva. If they can disrupt Leinster’s set-piece and maintain a high tempo, they stand a strong chance of achieving an remarkable victory.
Bulls vs. Sharks
Venue: Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Kick-off: 18:15 local time (17:15 BST)
Jake White’s Bulls are riding a wave of form and confidence. Their thrilling 42–35 win over Edinburgh saw them score five tries in a 25-minute blitz—showcasing their trademark blend of physicality and flair. They are arguably the most dangerous attacking team left in the tournament.
Cameron Hanekom was the standout performer in the quarter-final, offering explosive ball-carrying and big defensive hits. Alongside veterans like Marcell Coetzee and Johan Goosen, the Bulls are structured yet dangerous in broken play.
Loftus Versfeld remains a fortress at altitude, and the Bulls have only lost once there all season. Their style—built around winning collisions, dominant scrums, and quick ruck speed—makes them lethal on home turf.
The Sharks have achieved the most remarkable narrative of the playoffs thus far. Following a 24–24 tie against Munster in Durban, they emerged victorious in a rare and contentious kicking shootout. Although the victory was fraught with drama, including claims of interference during the shootout, the Sharks’ determination and poise under pressure were particularly noteworthy.
Guided by captain Lukhanyo Am and bolstered by Siya Kolisi (if available), the Sharks have hit their stride at a crucial moment. Their backline possesses significant firepower—Aphelele Fassi and Makazole Mapimpi are dynamic when given space—while their forward pack has increased in strength throughout the season.
However, concerns linger regarding their consistency. They will need to elevate their performance significantly to compete with the Bulls’ intensity, particularly in Pretoria, where the heat and altitude present distinctive challenges.
