The 2022 finalists scored within the first 25 seconds thanks to speedster Kurt-Lee Arendse.

Johan Goosen nearly scored a second try before a penalty conversion by Rhyno Smith put Benetton on the board.

Arendse scored again in the 21st minute, with both tries converted by Goosen. Benetton continued to fight and Fijian Onisi Ratave finally scored for the visitors following a number of quick passes. Smith failed to convert, while Goosen put over another penalty conversion just before the break, which gave the Bulls a comfortable 17 – 8 lead at half-time.

The second half saw penalties exchanged by Smith and Goosen, but the visitors closed the gap to two points thanks to a try by Tomas Albornoz and conversion from Smith.  The Bulls hit back almost immediately, with outside David Kriel dotting down the ball and Goosen succeeding with the conversion.

Benetton were not done, however, and Tongan Malakai Fekitoa scored in the corner to bring about a nail-bighting finish.  Smith’s missed conversions proved costly and another penalty by Goosen ensured the Bulls win.

The Bulls will now host Leinster at Loftus Versfeld in next week’s first semi-final.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger