This Saracens triumph was marked by a blend of impressive rugby and moments of comedy, thanks to the howling winds that made even the best players look a bit foolish. It also served as a stark reminder of the absurdity surrounding Tom Willis's continued exclusion from the England squad. The No 8 delivered a commanding performance, showcasing exactly what can be accomplished with a back-row forward who can power through the gainline. The fact that this was against South African opposition, albeit not the top-tier Springboks, should not escape Steve Borthwick's attention, especially given England's recent struggles against South Africa. Willis's second-half try sealed Saracens' victory, kickstarting their Champions Cup campaign and avenging last season's loss to the Bulls in Pretoria. For some England internationals, there was a particular satisfaction in outplaying the Springbok veteran Willie le Roux.
It was also an ideal response to last week's unexpected defeat by Newcastle. In challenging conditions and against formidable opponents, Saracens were perfectly poised for this victory. Maro Itoje was at his disruptive best, Jamie George was fired up from the start, but it was Willis who stood out, sending the Bulls home with their tails between their legs. The visitors were without several key Springboks forwards, including Ruan Nortje and Elrich Louw, but still fielded a formidable pack, featuring a massive back row and a 6ft 5in loose-head prop. Despite this, Saracens found themselves under pressure in the first half, often pinned in their own 22 due to the wind. On the rare occasions they could clear their lines, Fergus Burke struggled to gain ground from the boot. When Sebastian de Klerk scored the opening try for the Bulls after a brilliant pass from Le Roux, it seemed the deficit might be significant at halftime.
However, Saracens rallied. Elliot Daly's incisive run created the first significant territory for the home side, and from there they began to gain a foothold in the game. Burke missed a straightforward kick, hitting the right post, before Saracens, emboldened, opted against kickable penalties and equalized at 5-5 when Rhys Carre powered over. Burke did his best from the tee, but Storm Darragh was unforgiving, causing chaos whenever either side kicked the ball. The Bulls applied pressure at the scrum, but a Willis turnover showed he had lost none of the form that made his exclusion from England's autumn squad so puzzling. Saracens' respite was short-lived as Burke's clearance kick went backwards into the hands of his winger Rotimi Segun, whose foot was in touch.
Saracens realized the need to stop kicking penalties in their half and instead relied on Willis's powerful carries, gradually moving upfield. Burke finally made no mistake from the tee in front of the posts. With the wind at their backs and two extra men after Jannes Kirsten and De Klerk were sent to the sin-bin for high tackles, Saracens took control after the break. George scored from a lineout drive, feeling like the decisive score. When Willis added the try his performance deserved from close range after Theo McFarland's charge down, the Bulls were finished. Ben Earl added a fourth try, securing the bonus point, but he will be keenly aware that more performances like Willis's could seriously threaten his place in the England squad.
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