Jack Dempsey and his first URC Final

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - APRIL 19: Jack Dempsey in action for Warriors during a BKT URC match between Glasgow Warriors and Hollywoodbets Sharks at Scotstoun Stadium, on April 19, 2024, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group)

After joining Glasgow Warriors ahead of the 2021/22 season, the Australian-born back rower switched allegiance to Scotland in 2022 after obtaining 14 caps for the Wallabies. Dempsey certainly made an impact both at club and international level in Scotland. The number 8 holds 20 caps for Scotland and 49 for Glasgow. But the final of the URC 2023/24 will be his first in Warriors’ kit.

Dempsey has featured in both previous URC knockout rounds this season against the DHL Stormers and Munster. His defensive work, strength in the back row, and physicality that he displayed in these games will be crucial against the Vodacom Bulls.

With only six days to get to South Africa ahead of the final, the physical preparation from the whole season is more important than ever.

“At this point in the season, we know who we are both tactically and tectonically,” Jack stated. “The shortened prep time is less an issue than the physical readiness and recovery. So that has been our focus.”

Discussing the physicality of the semi-final against Munster, Jack said that adrenaline would carry the squad through.

“There’s always going to be sore bodies after a Munster game, even more so after a semi.

“Adrenaline in these big stage, knock-out matches is what lifts you and up and pushes you through.”

Dempsey featured in the EPCR Challenge Cup Final against Toulon last season. However, Saturday 22 June will be his first URC final.

Whilst Glasgow Warriors have been a consistently top performing side in the URC over the past few years, the last time they reached the final was prior to the establishment of the competition. The Pro14 Final in 2019 was the last domestic league final the Warriors reached.

Jack Dempsey will be crucial to Glasgow’s success against the Vodacom Bulls. The South African side—which is peppered with physical forwards and backs with pin-point accuracy on their kicks—will put up a fight. The number 8’s abrasive open field running and power in the back row will hopefully add to his eight tries scored in a Glasgow strip.

“I’m very excited and grateful to be a part of this team representing Glasgow in the final,” Jack said.

“The way this club has worked on and off the field in the past 48 months, we deserve to play on this stage.

“To do it against such a historic club like the Bulls which I grew up watching in the early Super Rugby days makes it all the more special.”

Dempsey’s defensive efforts will be more crucial than ever. His international and club experience in remaining level-headed will steer the battle that will decide the winner of the URC 2023/24.