The DHL Stormers kept their unbeaten start alive and stayed top of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship with a composed 31-13 win over Zebre Parma in Italy, securing a bonus point to make it four from four. Their accuracy at set piece and patience in phase play told in Parma, where a late surge sealed the result and underlined why they remain early title favourites.

In Galway, the Vodacom Bulls ground out a 28-27 thriller against Connacht, surviving a last-minute conversion miss to claim a vital away win. Jake White’s side showed defensive resilience and improved discipline, bouncing back strongly after their previous week’s slip.

The Emirates Lions also found relief in Johannesburg, notching their first victory of the season with a 29-18 win over the Scarlets at Ellis Park. After three straight losses, a sharper second half and strong maul work turned the tide and lifted pressure on coach Ivan van Rooyen.

The Hollywoodbets Sharks, however, remain winless after falling 34-26 to Ulster in Durban. Despite flashes of attacking promise, their defensive lapses proved costly against an Ulster side that has started the season in commanding form.

Four rounds in, South Africa’s URC picture is taking shape Stormers lead with precision and confidence, Bulls rebuild belief, Lions finally roar, and Sharks need a quick fix before the derby run begins.