URC: Five talking points for Round 12 including a must-win for the Bulls

The United Rugby Championship continues with Round 12 this weekend. South African teams in the northern hemisphere are looking to adapt better to the cold.

The Bulls have lost their last three games in all competitions. Jake White's side has been travelling a lot and has a tough schedule. They play the Dragons at Loftus Versfeld. The Welsh side finds different gears on their home turf. If the Bulls lose to the Dragon it could spell trouble for them. If they win, they will underline their title credentials. It would be hard to bet against them, but they need to win.

Sharks go to Sportsground to play Connacht. Neil Powell has done well since taking over the coaching role. Sharks beat Bulls 47-20 last weekend. Powell is sending a young side to face Connach this weekend and leaving the heavyweights at home for the Champions Cup clash against Bordeaux and likely the trip up to Harlequins a week later.

The Stormers have only lost two games and drawn one this season. The team has struggled with cold and wet weather in the past. Glasgow will be relishing the chance to get one over the champions. The forecast in Glasgow is freezing with fairly strong winds. It could be a real opportunity for Glasgow to catch the Stormer cold. Two teams who like to throw the ball around, in icy conditions, will showcase the beauty of this competition.

Ulster's last two games have been disappointing. Benetton have a chance to upset Ulster in Treviso. Benettons have won at home this season. Ulster is the firm favourite. The Bulls need to win. They lost to Munster last weekend. Tom Albornoz's kicking is effective when executed well.

Leinster are always at the top of the table. Ospreys are on a great run of three wins on the trot. Leinsters are hungry for silverware. They play in Swansea this weekend. They need to win to continue their blemish-free season.