Sanjay's Rugby World

The Bulls play their first match in a 4 game overseas trip when they take on the Hurricanes in Napier on Saturday night.

The Bulls need at least 2 wins on their overseas trip and play a Hurricanes side which is out of form and struggling so far in 2011.

The Bulls have not been vintage this year either, so which time will be able to turn their fortunes around?

TEAM SELECTION

The Bulls have named a strong squad, and welcome back Francois Hougaard to the starting lineup.

Hougaard is a player with the ‘x’ factor and replaces Gerard van den Heever who drops down to the bench.

Gary Botha and Zane Kirchner also return to the starting line-up, replacing Chiliboy and Jaco van der Westhuyzen.

Frans Ludeke has also opted for a traditional 4-3 split on the bench, possibly influenced by Danie Rossouw’s absence from the squad. Rossouw has stayed in Pretoria as his wife gave birth to their son.

THE TRAVEL FACTOR

The Bulls only left Pretoria on Tuesday night, arriving in Wellington at midnight on Wednesday night.

It’s the same strategy they’ve successfully employed on their last 2 overseas trips, minimizing the time spent away from home.

This Bulls side understands there is little they need to do on the training field, it’s being mentally prepared and rested that will influence the result on Saturday.

The Bulls have won their opening match on tour 4 out of the last 5 years. Hopefully that is a good omen!

IT’s ALL ABOUT BASICS

Many have said the Bulls are in decline, but it won’t take much to awaken the sleeping giants.

They’ve not been their typical selves in the set-pieces, and that has put pressure on the rest of their game.

Prior to the Lions clash, Victor Matfield said, “It is definitely something that is worrying me/ “It is not something we are used to and we will have to work hard to rectify these things.”

“We always do things accurately, that’s what usually makes us good. We don’t lose a scrum or a lineout and we put other teams under pressure.”

“We are a team that is traditionally good at the detail. Our execution was always our strength, but we’re no longer accurate. I know we can fix it.”

It won’t take much to turn it around, but the Bulls can ill-afford to gift the Hurricanes with chances, despite their oppositions poor recent form.

PREDICTION

The Bulls will find this a tough match, and while I believe they are fatigued, if they keep it simple and execute the basics correctly they stand a good chance.

The Hurricanes are in a similar position of having plenty of class that can click on any given day.

If the Bulls dominate up front, and keep Steyn ticking the points over, I believe they can do it!

Bulls by 8.

Go Bulle Go!

Vodacom Bulls:

1. Dean Greyling
2. Gary Botha
3. Werner Kruger
4. Bakkies Botha
5. Victor Matfield (c)
6. Deon Stegmann
7. Dewald Potgieter
8. Pierre Spies
9. Fourie du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Francois Hougaard
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Jaco Pretorius
14. Bjorn Basson
15. Zane Kirchner

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. Rossouw de Klerk
18. Flip van der Merwe
19. Derick Kuun
20. Francois Brummer
21. Gerhard van den Heever
22. Jaco van der Westhuyzen

Hurricanes:

1. John Schwalger
2. Andrew Hore (c)
3. Neemia Tialata
4. Jeremy Thrush
5. Jason Eaton
6. Jack Lam
7. Serge Lilo
8. Victor Vito
9. Chris Eaton
10. Daniel Kirkpatrick
11. Hosea Gear
12. Ma’a Nonu
13. Conrad Smith
14. Julin Savea
15. Corey Jane

16. Dane Coles
17. Jacob Ellison
18. James Broadhurst
19. Mark Reddish
20. Tyson Keats
21. Aaron Cruden
22. Charlie Ngatai

Referee: Jonathan White

Previous Super Rugby results:

2006: Bulls 23, Hurricanes 26 (Pretoria)
2007: Bulls 9, Hurricanes 17 (Wellington)
2008: Bulls 22, Hurricanes 50 (Pretoria)
2009: Bulls 19, Hurricanes 14 (Wellington)
2010: Bulls 19, Hurricanes 18 (Pretoria)

The Bulls announced their 26 man touring squad to travel to New Zealand and Australia for their 4 match 2011 Super Rugby tour.

The Bulls depart on Tuesday night, arriving in Wellington on Wednesday at midnight in preparation for Saturday’s clash against the Hurricanes in Napier (a 5 hour drive north of Wellington on the East Coast of New Zealand).


The Bulls will play:
Apr 2 – Hurricanes
Apr 9 – Crusaders (Nelson)
Apr 16 – Reds (Brisbane)
Apr 23 – Force (Perth)


Despite the fractured arm sustained by Gurthro Steenkamp, the Bulls are back to full despite a few niggling injuries:
Jaco Pretorius (neck)
Victor Matfield (blow to the head)
Bakkies Botha (knee)
Flip van der Merwe (ankle).

The same 22 that beat the Lions will tour, along with Zane Kirchner, midfielder Stephan Dippenaar, winger Akona Ndungane and uncapped prop Morne Mellett.

The touring squad is:

Props

Werner Kruger
Dean Greyling
Rossouw de Klerk
Morné Mellett

Hookers

Gary Botha
Chiliboy Ralepelle

Locks

Victor Matfield
Bakkies Botha
Danie Rossouw
Flip van der Merwe

Loose Forwards

Pierre Spies
Dewald Potgieter
Deon Stegmann
Derick Kuün

Scrumhalves

Fourie du Preez
Francois Hougaard

Flyhalves

Morné Steyn
Francois Brummer

Centres

Wynand Olivier
Jaco Pretorius
Stephan Dippenaar

Wings

Gerhard van den Heever
Bjorn Basson
Akona Ndungane

Fullbacks

Zane Kirchner
Jaco van der Westhuyzen

Stats from the Bulls 30-23 victory over the Lions at Loftus on Saturday night.

Bulls 30

Tries: Dewald Potgieter, Gary Botha, Bjorn Basson
Conversions: Steyn (3)
Penalties: Steyn (3)

Lions 23

Tries: Gideon Van Rensburg; Franco van der Merwe
Conversions: Andre Pretorious (2)
Penalties: Elton Jantjies (3)

Half-time: Bulls 10 Lions 6

The Bulls team and individual effort was poor as they avoided a 3rd straight defeat at Loftus in beating the lowly Lions 30-23.

Bulls 30

Tries: Dewald Potgieter, Gary Botha, Bjorn Basson
Conversions: Steyn (3)
Penalties: Steyn (3)

Lions 23

Tries: Gideon Van Rensburg; Franco van der Merwe
Conversions: Andre Pretorious (2)
Penalties: Elton Jantjies (3)

Bulls player rating:

1. Dean Greyling – 6

Looking mobile and lean. Had a solid first effort in Super Rugby for this year, and needs to maintain discipline around the breakdown.

2. Chiliboy Ralepelle – 7

Got better as the match wore on and made a few incisive runs. His best performance in a long while.

3. Werner Kruger – 8

Would have been my man of the match as he had a high work rate around the field and was involved in everything, including a great kick ahead that led to a Bulls try for Dewald Potgieter.

4. Bakkies Botha – 5

Largely anonymous for too much of the game and his poor form may be why the Bulls pack is struggling.

5. Victor Matfield (c) – 3

One of the worst games I’ve ever seen from Matfield. Missed 2 crucial tackles late in the game that led to the 2 Lions tries. Kicking the ball dead when a 4th try was on offer signalled his tiredness which an in-form Matfield would never do. Needs 4 weeks rest!

6. Deon Stegmann – 6

Had a busy game around the breakdown but ultimately not accurate enough to be effective. Carried the ball well at the base of the maul.

7. Dewald Potgieter – 6

Had an industrious game and ran a great angle to score his try. Needs to be imposing around the breakdown and ruck however.

8. Pierre Spies – 5

Not the right player for the tight matches as he likes space to operate in. Made some basic handling erors and not getting over the gain line ofter enough.

9. Fourie du Preez – 6

Has not been at his best this year. Made some great tackles, but can leave his side exposed when rushing up in defence.

10. Morne Steyn – 6

Tackled well and kicked at goal brilliantly. On attack is causing his backline to run from too deep and they’re getting caught behind the advantage line. Needs to vary his attacking depth more and run onto the ball.

11. Bjorn Basson – 6

Cn get exposed on defence but wonderful competing for the high ball in the air. Still not convinced he deserves to start.

12. Wynand Olivier – 3

Woeful. Far too many handling errors and not strong enough on defence. Running from too deep and getting caught behind the advntage line.

13. Jaco Pretorious – 4

Very rarely does anything outstanding and the Bulls would be better off developing someone who can make a difference in the number 13 jersey.

14. Gerhard van den Heever – 3

Never had play go his way, and when it did he was average at best.

15. Jaco van der Westhuyzen – 8

Was the Bulls most dangerous player, running the ball bak strongly and generally having an attacking mindset in whatever he attempted. Was unlucky to be replaced in the second half. Not sure why you’d take off one of your best players.

Worth a go at flyhalf to see what he could spark.

16. Gary Botha – 7

Solid and took his try well.

17. Rossouw de Klerk – 6

Did his job when he came on. No more, no less.

18. Flip van der Merwe – 6

Worked hard and carried the ball strongly. Deserves a start ahead of Bakkies.

19. Danie Rossouw – 6

Didn’t have the desired impact and spilt at least 1 ball.

20. Derick Kuun – 5

Minimal impact.

21. Francois Brummer -

Not used

22. Francois Hougaard – 6

Was utlised too late but did bring grater energy to a sorry Bulls backline effort.

Bulls Forward Pack – 6

Unable to impose themselves against a mediocre Lions effort. Dominated in the maul initially but failed to use it enough in the second half.

Bulls Backline – 2

Completely woeful and coughed the ball up far too often. Would have been punished by a better side. Standing too deep on attack and getting caught behind he advantage line, something Pieter Rossouw needs to fix.

Bulls Team Effort – 3

One of the worst displays in a long time. Definitely not improving this year and other than tiredness and fatigue, not sure what is going on.

The Bulls avoided a 3rd straight defeat at Loftus with a 30-23 win over the Lions but will be terribly disappointed with their sub-standard performance.

Bulls 30

Tries: Dewald Potgieter, Gary Botha, Bjorn Basson
Conversions: Steyn (3)
Penalties: Steyn (3)

Lions 23

Tries: Gideon Van Rensburg; Franco van der Merwe
Conversions: Andre Pretorious (2)
Penalties: Elton Jantjies (3)

Half-time: Bulls 10 Lions 6


The Bulls will be pleased to have avoided their 3rd straight defeat at Loftus, but will hardly be pleased with the manner it was achieved in.

It was possibly the worst display by the Bulls this season despite achieving a 7 point victory. Victor Matfield’s decision in injury time to boot the ball over the sideline when the Bulls were 5m from the Lions line chasing a 4 try bonus point summed up the frustration for his side.

IT’S SILL NOT RIGHT

Early in the week Frans Ludeke and Victor Matfield highlighted the Bulls inaccuracies in the basics of the game.

“Of course there is a lot of hard work to be done, especially on the small things, but I don’t think it is too much of an issue at the moment. We definitely need a better effort but I don’t think it will take that much to turn it” said Ludeke.

Matfield has mentioned poor handling, poor discipline and an inability to hold onto the ball as the Bulls weaknesses this year.

“It is definitely something that is worrying me, especially after two losses. It is not something we are used to and we will have to work hard to rectify these things” mentioned Matfield.

However at Loftus against the lowly Lions, it was no better, and if anything, worse.

POOR START

Once again the Bulls started poorly with basics errors allowing the Lions to enjoy territoy and possession.

Basic mistakes, including too many dropped passes and balls in the tackle should have seen the Lions punish the Bulls, but they were just as woeful. A better side such as the Crusaders would most likely have opened up a 15-20 point lead after the first quarter.

Instead the Bulls were able to lead after having conceded the early penalty.

THE BREAKDOWN AND ADVANTAGE LINE

A rare turnover at the breakdown allowed Werner Kruger to kick down the right hand touchline that led to Dewald Potgieter running into a hole and flying onto a well directed pass from Fourie du Preez. The expected floodgates remained off however and a silly penalty on the stroke of half-time allowed the Lions to edge back to within 4.

The second half was much of the same as the Bulls at times threatened to display the sort of consistent play we have come to expect over the last 4 seasons, but errors and penalties cost them the chance of sustaining pressure on the Lions.

The Bulls could simply not win the war of the breakdown, and far too often struggled to make it over the advantage line. That may be where some of the frustration and ill-discipline stems from.

SOMEONE NEEDS TO STAND UP

At the moment there is little momentum occurring for the Bulls on attack. The kick chase is not accurate enough, and is best used as a variation as opposed to the only means of attack anyhow.

Most of the forward runners and inside backs are struggling to get over the advantage line. Chiliboy was good against the Lions because he tried to run into holes. Maybe this is where the Bulls are going wrong, because Matfield, (Bakkies) Botha, Spies and Potgieter are just not making any yardage.

In the backs it’s a different story, with the Bulls standing too deep and Morne Steyn using Wynand Olivier well behind the gain line, even for hit-ups. The Bulls have been using plays behind dummy runners, something seen more often in rugby league, and it’s just not working for the moment.

The centre combination is not a big, strong pairing in any event, and their strengths are not trying to run over the opposition, but run into space. A little more intelligence and nous on attack is needed.

BULLS HOLD ON

The Lions to their credit refused to give up, and a late score from Lions captain Franco van der Merwe in his 50th Super Rugby Match gave them a shot at a draw with a few minutes to go.

The Bulls were trying for a 4th try bonus point, but frustration and lack of confidence are probably what caused Victor Matfield to boot the ball dead when they were only 5m from the Lions line and the sought after try.

Having achieved just 5 log points out of a possible 15 in their run of 3 consecutive home games, the Bulls head overseas for what could be a make or break tour. They dislike touring, and will most likely need at least 2 wins out of 4 to seriously contend for a play-off spot when they return to South Africa.

Match Stats

Bulls Player Ratings

If the Bulls (and Boks) want to ensure 2011 is a success, they need to turn their season around with an improved performance and result at Loftus on Saturday against the Lions.

But the Bulls are not a side to lie down, they exhibit tremendous belief and desire to overcome whatever is thrown their way.

They are lucky to be playing a Lions side that has not beaten them in over 5 years, and this will ensure the Bulls have won half the battle before the game is even won as the Lions lose the mental battle.

It’s time for the Bulls to re-discover their mojo…and keep alive the dream of the hat-trick!

TEAM SELECTION

The Bulls have been forced to make 2 changes with the long term injury to Gurthro Steenkamp, and the shoulder niggle Zane Kirchner suffered against the Stormers.

Dean Greyling gets his chance at loosehead prop, and coach Frans Ludeke had this to say, “Greyling knows our systems and played there throughout the Currie Cup last year even if this is his first Super Rugby start. There will definitely be a gap we need to fill, but we do back the system.”

It’ll rob them of some much needed experience, and a player like Kirchner is not rated highly by many scribes, but I am sure his value will be highlighted more by his absence, as he simply does the basics well and has no apparent weaknesses.

The Bulls have not hit the panic button, sticking largely to the squad and tactics that have worked for them over the last 4 years.

The Bulls will be buoyed by the news that Bakkies Botha was dismissed of a charge of dangerous play against Dewaldt Duvenage, and the big man will be keen to atone for his performance last week.

MILESTONES

The Bulls have not lost three consecutive Super Rugby matches at Loftus since 2002 (when they finished with the wooden spoon).

The Bulls have won their past 9 matches against the Lions.

The last time the Lions beat the Bulls was way back in 2002!

Victor Matfield (113) will become the most capped Bulls player in Super Rugby. He played for the Bulls 105 times and 8 times for the Cats.

Matfield will also extend his Bulls and South African record as captain in Super Rugby, leading his side for the 65th time.

Morné Steyn should extend his Bulls and South African Super Rugby records for career points (814), penalties (137), conversions (145) and dropped goals (17).

BULLS JUST NEED TO BE BETTER

The Bulls are often criticised for their approach. Forget about game plans and playing the wrong tactics, the Bulls just have to be better in the basics of the game, and do what they do best with greater accuracy.

“We must do everything five to 10% better” said captain Victor Matfield this week.

“Our accuracy isn’t there. We are a team that normally strangles guys in their half and we had five opportunities last Saturday and on all five occasions we lost the ball within two phases. That is not the way we play.”

Matfield this week stressed it is important for his experienced and big name players to lead from the front. Expect a blinder from Matfield and Fourie du Preez who have too much pride in the Bulls to let them down again.

“It is very important for the top players to deliver the standard of play people have come to expect from them and if that happens, the rest will follow” stressed Matfield.

THE BULLS AREN’T PANICKING

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke has stressed that his side has faith in their game plan and tactics and do not need to panic.

“I’m not worried at all. We know we can play and if we can get one or two things to work for us things will be alright. I promise you I’m not worried that we can’t turn this around” said Ludeke.

The Bulls had a meeting with the board of directors this week, who showed their support for Ludeke, and backed him to turn things around.

“Every weekend we believe it will come right but we’ve been in this situation before, it is a long season. We back our systems and we know it will turn. We have to use that belief to change our fortunes and you cannot quantify belief. We have faith that it will turn around.”

“It doesn’t help we don’t talk around it. If there is an Elephant in the room, we can’t ignore it. What we try and do is concentrate on the positives.”

BULLS HAVE TO BE POSITIVE

Coach Frans Ludeke was highlighting his charges need to keep a positive mindset this week.

“Everyone can concentrate on 100 negative things in this game, but that will never help you. The positive things are that we have taken ourselves out of situations like this before and we have the quality players to do it.”

“This is where faith comes in, you have to back yourself and back the team. And you back yourself. I believe with my whole heart we are going to turn this around. We haven’t had the results that we have been hoping for and which we’ve worked hard for yet.”

“The seed is in the ground and we have done the hard yards in the off-season, that somewhere it has to turn. We believe it will come right this weekend.”

It is not just the mindset where the Bulls must be positive. They need to be positive in their body language, and play. They showed that when they ran the ball from deep last week against the Stormers and were clinical in scoring a great backline try in greasy conditions.

They just need to keep up the positive play.

PREDICTION

The Bulls will be supremely motivated, and shouldn’t have too much to fear from a Lions side that is still not sure how to play, and is indecisive in its decision making that comes from knowing how to win games.

If the Bulls focus on the basics, retain the ball and make first time tackles they’ll win comfortably.

If they get rattled it could be a long day, but expect a strong performance led by the experienced players and lookout for Fourie du Preez to stamp his mark on the game.

Bulls by 14.

Go Bulle Go!

Bulls:

1. Dean Greyling
2. Chiliboy Ralepelle
3. Werner Kruger
4. Bakkies Botha
5. Victor Matfield (c)
6. Deon Stegmann
7. Dewald Potgieter
8. Pierre Spies
9. Fourie du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bjorn Basson
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Jaco Pretorius
14. Gerhard van den Heever
15. Jaco van der Westhuyzen

16. Gary Botha
17. Rossouw de Klerk
18. Flip van der Merwe
19. Danie Rossouw
20. Derick Kuun
21. Francois Hougaard
22. Francois Brummer

Lions:

1. JC Janse van Rensburg
2. Bandise Maku
3. Patrick Cilliers
4. David Bulbring
5. Franco van der Merwe (c)
6. Cobus Grobbelaar
7. Derick Minnie
8. Warren Whiteley
9. Jano Vermaak
10. Elton Jantjies
11. Deon van Rensburg
12. Doppies la Grange
13. Waylon Murray
14. Lionel Mapoe
15. Michael Killian

16. Edgar Marutlulle
17. Jacobie Adriaanse
18. Michael Rhodes
19. Josh Strauss
20. Rory Kockott
21. Andre Pretorius
22. Jaco Taute

Referee: Chris Pollock (NZ)
Assistant Referees: Vinny Munro (NZ) and Fumanekile Yamile (SA)
TMO: Johann Meuwesen (SA)

Previous Super 14 results:

2006: Bulls 46, Lions 17 (Pretoria)
2007: Bulls 31, Lions 7 (Johannesburg)
2008: Bulls 31, Lions 17 (Pretoria)
2009: Bulls 16, Lions 9 (Johannesburg)
2010: Bulls 51, Lions 11 (Pretoria)
2011: Bulls 24, Lions 20 (Johannesburg)

In Dewald Potgieter’s latest column for Supersport ‘Shattered glass part 2‘, he talks about giving 100% and the commitment the Bulls will be continuing to give this season.

Like all Bulls fans I am hurting. I don’t think I’ve been this shattered, or this pissed off in a long time.

The Boks were a bit of a circus, so I can understand them having a poor year in 2010, but the Bulls…no way!

Dewald Potgieter writes from the heart and doesn’t hold back in his Supersport column. He talks about the commitment the Bulls strive for, their desperation and their over eagness to put things right.

I believe the Bulls success is their biggest weakness. Not complacency like some believe, but fatigue and exhaustion. I sincerely believe it’s affecting us so that the accurcy we are used to is not quite there.

Despite that, I like all true Bulls fans, back my side 100%. We are in this together, and we will shout till we can’t shout no more!

I love the Bulls because of their attitude. They’ll never give up, they do it for their fans and they feel for their fans, and above all they make us proud because they have an attitude that we can be proud of.

NO CHANGING OF THE GUARD JUST YET

Those who point to a changing of the guard in South African rugby…hold on.

The only side capable of matching the Bulls are Western Province/the Stormers. They’re building a similar culture and work ethic.

The Lions may get there, with time. And the Southern Kings also look to be building something special.

But it’s why I don’t rate the Sharks or the Cheetahs. I don’t believe they’ve got it right off the field, and that is what makes a side successful on it.

Go Bulle Go!

Giant Bulls lock Bakkies Botha faced the judiciary on Tuesday for a dangerous tackle on Stormers srcumhalf Dewaldt Duvenage.

Botha was found not guilty, with all charges dropped.

He will thus be available for the Bulls next match against the Lions at Loftus this weekend.

However no doubt he will be warned by his coaches to stay underneath the radar and keep out of trouble!

Bulls enforcer Bakkies Botha has been cited for a dangerous tackle on Stormers scrumhalf Dewaldt Duvenage following the Bulls 23-13 loss on Saturday.

Whilst I have yet to see the incident, it shouldn’t come as any surprise given Botha’s history with the judiciary.

It’s disappointing to see Bakkies in this (familiar) situation once more, and places the Bulls under even further pressure.

In losing 23-12 to the Stormers at Loftus, the Bulls poor team effort was not helped by individuals who failed to do their require jobs.

Bulls 13
Tries: Bjorn Basson
Conversion: Morne Steyn
Penalties: Steyn (2)

Stormers 23
Tries: Bryan Habana
Penalties: Peter Grant (6)

Bulls player rating:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 5

Largely non-existent, and barely made a run all game.

2. Chiliboy Ralepelle – 3

Poor with his lineout throwing when it mattered most, and gave away too many penalties.

3. Werner Kruger – 5

Tried to make a steal but got pinged. Provided a decent right shoulder in the scrums at times.

4. Bakkies Botha – 6

Battled gamely, but didn’t get over the advantage line often or strongly enough, subject to some ferocious tackling from the Stormers.

5. Victor Matfield (c) – 4

Rarely has a bad game, this was one of them. Got caught offside, and generally didnt lead his troops well enough.

6. Deon Stegmaan – 5

Tried bravely at the breakdowns but was innacurate and not helped by a tight five who were outplayed. Your fetcher flank needs to play on the edge, but Stegmann is not adjusting to the referee and is just not accurate enough for his side at present.

7. Dewald Potgieter – 4

Largely anonymous. Will need to reinvent his game as he makes enough tackles, but ineffective with ball in hand.

8. Pierre Spies – 5

Tried hard on attack, but other than one storming run in the second half failed to get over the advantage line and get his side go forward.

9. Fourie du Preez – 6

The normally calm du Preez got frustrated at times. Kicked beautifully from the base of the ruck, and strong on defence.

10. Morne Steyn – 4

Needs to take the ball flatter as his backline plays too deep. Not able to produce his normal goal-kicking success rate which really mattered in a tight game as this. Had the ability to put the Stormers behind, but couldn’t produce under pressure.

11. Bjorn Basson – 4

Took his try brilliantly, but poor on defence. Competed for the high ball well on 1 or 2 occasions, but in general his play has been poor all season and should be dropped. Cost his side by being too casual and allowing Habana to score from a kick through.

12. Wynand Olivier – 4

An error ridden performance and needs to be stronger crashing the ball up in tighter matches.

13. Jaco Pretorius – 5

Did not see much ball his way, and outdone by Jaque Fourie in the physicality battle.

14. Gerhard van den Heever – 6

Battled gamely but needs the ball in space. Still too upright in contact situations but worked well closer to the ruck.

15. Zane Kirchner – 7

Created the try forr Basson with a perfectly timed run and pass. Solid at the back.

16. Gary Botha – 5

Not much better than Chiliboy on the night.

17. Rossouw de Klerk -

Not used

18. Flip van der Merwe – 5

Failed to produce an impact.

19. Danie Rossouw – 5

Like van der Merwe, failed to ignite his side and made handling errors.

20. Francois Hougaard – 7

Immediately looked sharp and dangerous when he came on. Now he is fit again, should replace Basson.

21. Francois Brummer -

Not used

22. Derick Kuun – 5

Could not stop the rot when he came on.

Bulls Forward Pack – 3

For the second week in a row the Buls forwards got outplayed. The set-pieces were diabolical and that’s where it all failed for tthe Bulls who pride themselves on doing the basics well.

Bulls Backline – 4

Ran from too deep, and produced handling errors that stopped any momentum. Apart from a well worked try that showed how easy it can be, not much to be positive about.

Bulls Team Effort – 3

Ill discplined and getting smashed at the breakdown. When the Bulls did get the ball, they failed to utilise possession well and against a good defence like the Stormers they were made to pay.

The Bulls were BULLied in the physical contest as the Stormers won for the first time since 2003 at Loftus on Saturday night.

Bulls 13
Tries: Bjorn Basson
Conversion: Morne Steyn
Penalties: Steyn (2)

Stormers 23
Tries: Bryan Habana
Penalties: Peter Grant (6)

Half-time: Bulls 10 Stormers 12

The Bulls run of 20 consecutive home games has come crushing down with 2 successive defeats at Fortress Loftus.

The Stormers picked up their first Super Rugby win at Loftus since 2003, the first time anyone in their match 22 had achieved this. It was also the first time 7 of the Bulls players had ever lost a Super Rugby match to South African opposition.

THE BASICS WERE POOR

In looking back where it all went wrong, the Bulls wil lament poor basic errors. Ball handling, the lineouts, a shaky scrum and ill-discipline led to the Bulls rarely putting the Stormers under pressure, and giving multiple opportunities to Peter Grant to keep eding the Stormers ahead.

The Stormers never relinquished their lead after the Bulls started off poorly and allowed Peter Grant the luxury of a penalty in the 3rd minute as they went offside at a wobbly midfield scrum.

The Bulls had to make a large number of tackles, and whenever they did get the ball, basics handling errors put them straight under pressure again.

BULLIED AT THE BREAKDOWN

For the 2nd week in a row, a side took on the Bulls up front and got the better of them. The tight 5 are just not responding to the physical challenge with the props Steenkamp and Kruger anonymous around the field after being placed under great pressure at the scrums.

Chiliboy has failed to grab his opportunity, and gives away the odd penalty. Bakkies Botha tried hard, but cannot take on a pack by hiself, and Matfield finally had a bad game. Is this a consequence of being overrworked in the last 2 seasons?

This put the Bulls under tremendous pressure, and one the loose forwards could not clean up as they lacked size and aggression when compared to their Stomers opponents.

In fact the whole Stormers side took on the Bulls in the physical challenge and smashed them.

THE BACKLINE IS TOO DEEP

It’s a bit hard to judge the backline given they’ve not had enough quality ball to work with. But Morne Steyn is standing too deep, too often and needs to take the ball closer to the gainline so he can get his centres over the advantage line.

At the moment the entire backline are letting down their side by making mistakes, especially basic handling errors which robs the side of any monetum, and puts them straight under pressure again.

HAS THE BUBBLE BURST?

The question on everyone’s lips is have we seen the end of the Bulls dominance? It certainly makes their season tough dropping 2 home games.

But it is a longer season, and there will be upsets. The Bulls have the character and mindset to be able to come back. I just wonder however if physically the last few years have taken it’s toll without adeqate rest as both the provinces and national sides have run them into the ground.

It may be time for some of the younger Bulls players to make the step up that they have been groomed for and restore some pride back in Bulls rugby!

Bulls Player Ratings

The defending champions take on 1 of the only 2 unbeaten sides in this years competition, in what will be a rematch of last season’s final.

They’ve had 2 weeks to regroup and prepare for the Stormers who have not won a Super Rugby match at Loftus since 2003!

It promises to be a tough, physical match between last year’s finalists.

TEAM SELECTION

The Stormers have opted for a physical side to counter the Bulls up front and in the backline.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee has tried to ensure that he has enough experience and class in his substitutes to counter the effects of the altitude, the fatigue factor, and the impact the Bulls bench players usually bring.

The increased physicality may be why Juan de Jongh misses out ahead of Jaque Fourie.

“We must mention the specific plan we have for this game” Coetzee said earlier this week.

The Bulls meanwhile have selected a formidable side determined to set the ledger right at Loftus.

Bakkies Botha has recovered from a foot injury, partnering his mate Victor Matfield at lock, moving Danie Rossouw back to the bench, a position where I feel he can contribute more to the game.

Also on the bench are Gary Botha and Francois Hougaard who are coming back after injuries. It will be interesting to see where Francois Hougaard is utilised, and I get the feeling he is more likely to appear on the left wing than scrumhalf.

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke has also opted to load 5 forwards and only 2 backs on his bench , indicating the Bulls will aim to smash the Stormers up front.

In all, 17 players that were involved in the final of the Super 14 in May, 2010 will again be in action.

MILESTONES

Victor Matfield will equal Pedrie Wannenburg (113) as the most capped Bulls player in Super Rugby. Matfield has played 104 times for the Bulls and eight times for the Cats.

Matfield will extend his South African record to 64, for captaining a side in Super Rugby.

Morne Steyn will be looking to extend his Super Rugby points records at the Bulls and South Africa for most points in a career (806), most penalties in a career (135), most conversions in a career (144) and most dropped goals in a career (17).

The Stormers have not won a Super Rugby match at Loftus since 2003.

Not one of the present Stormers side has won a Super Rugby match at Loftus.

7 Bulls’ players have not lost a Super Rugby game against a fellow South African side (in 13 outings).

Victor Matfield last lost to a South African team back in February of 2007 (against the Sharks in Durban).

BULLS WILL BE SWITCHED ON

One of the Bulls strengths is their ability to bounce back, rarely lose twice in a row, and most importantly take responsibility as individuals for the collective effort. Their attitude to their loss against the Highlanders speaks volumes about their character, and determination not to let their fans down again.

The Bulls got together for the first time since on Monday since their defeat to the Highlanders.

“The defeat we suffered against the Highlanders was a good wake-up call for all and we are keen to get back to our winning ways” said coach Frans Ludeke.

“There was some straight talk on Monday and all the negative emotions from that game are out of their system.”

“Every week is very important and as we saw two weeks ago, you have to be on top of your game or else you’ll be in trouble.”

Bulls captain Victor Matfield highlighted the individual battles, but stressed the need to focus as a team on what matters most.

“The most important thing is for the team to come out on top and play well together and if we support each other on the day individuals will look good on the day” said Matfield.

“I really hope the guys won’t focus on those little battles. I’ll hope that they focus on what we must go do on the field to go win the game.”

“We want to get back to our standards of play and the way we believe we should be playing. We weren’t happy with the way we played in the last game so we really need to bounce back and play a good game against quality opposition.”

BULLS RESPECT THE STORMERS

It is apparent how highly the Bulls rate the Stormers, but they are not necessarily in awe or intimidated by them.

The Stormers may have been criticised for their lack of try-scoring so far this year, but the Bulls are focusing on what they need to do rather than getting caught up in a war of words.

“They don’t come bigger than the Stormers, so we prepared accordingly. The team is always motivated when it’s the Stormers. The focus is not on the opponent, but on what we need to do to be successful on Saturday” said Ludeke.

“Considering how easily we have been conceding tries, we are not in a position to comment on the Stormers’ lack of tries.”

And the Bulls don’t need any further motivation that playing a north-south derby.

“They are still undefeated, which proves their quality. This is always a big game for all of us, but even more importantly, it is a home game and we need to use that advantage. We are experienced, yes, but that only counts if we apply ourselves properly” said Matfield.

“The Stormers were in the final last year and are definitely one of the top teams in the competition so it will be a huge challenge for us. We are playing the Stormers in a North/South derby so I don’t think I’ll have to say too much to motivate the team.”

THE TACTICS

Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph highlighted the differences between the 2 sides.

“They are very different teams. The Bulls are quite content going from set-piece to set-piece. They are very direct and base their game around a very experienced forward pack” said Joseph.

“The Stormers are quite happy to chance their arm and have a good balance to their game. They can run it at you, they can counter, they certainly have a good defence and they showed against us at the breakdown that they are very physical.”

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke highlighted his side will look to dominate the physical contact points, and no doubt worked on his sides defence after looking decidedly shaky against the Stormers.

“We worked on a few things that weren’t right and believe that it will yield the desired result.” said Ludeke early in the week.

“We have to dominate and control the gain line.”

PREDICTION

It’ll be a tight, torrid affair initially. The Bulls will look to dominate up front, and create space out wider by sucking in the Stormers defence close to the ruck initially.

The Bulls should be able to keep the scoreboard ticking over through a combination of Morne Steyn and the odd try.

The Bulls defence will lift from their last effort, and won’t have too many problems against a side who won’t be able to get their forward player makers wide as they usually do, and once it does go to their

backline, their wide lateral running should be easy pickings for a determined Bulls defence.

The Bulls will look to start well, build a lead and wear their opponents down. The Stormers will try and match the impact players the Bulls possess and whoever can produce some moments of magic against tiring defences later in the game may emerge the winner.

Bulls by 14.

Go Bulle Go!

Vodacom Bulls:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. Chiliboy Ralepelle
3. Werner Kruger
4. Bakkies Botha
5. Victor Matfield (c)
6. Deon Stegmann
7. Dewald Potgieter
8. Pierre Spies
9. Fourie du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bjorn Basson
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Jaco Pretorius
14. Gerhard van den Heever
15. Zane Kirchner

16. Gary Botha
17. Rossouw de Klerk
18. Flip van der Merwe
19. Danie Rossouw
20. Derick Kuun
21. Francois Hougaard
22. Francois Brummer

Stormers:

1. Wicus Blaauw
2. Deon Fourie
3. Brok Harris
4. Rynhardt Elstadt
5. Andries Bekker
6. Pieter Louw
7. Francois Louw
8. Duane Vermeulen
9. Dewaldt Duvenage
10. Peter Grant
11. Bryan Habana
12. Jean de Villiers (c)
13. Jaque Fourie
14. Danie Poolman
15. Gio Aplon

16. Ethienne Reynecke
17. CJ van der Linde
18. De Kock Steenkamp
19. Nick Koster
20. Ricky Januarie
21. Gary van Aswegen
22. Juan de Jongh

Referee: Keith Brown
Assistant Referees: Glen Jackson and Phillip Bosch
TMO: Shaun Veldsman

Previous Super Rugby results:

2006: Bulls 43, Stormers 10 (Newlands)
2007: Bulls 49, Stormers 12 (Loftus)
2008: Bulls 16, Stormers 9 (Newlands)
2009: Bulls 14, Stormers 10 (Loftus)
2010: Bulls 10, Stormers 38 (Newlands)
2010: Bulls 25, Stormers 17 (Final – Orlando Stadium)

The Bulls suffered their first loss at home in over 2 seasons of Super Rugby, but they possess all the right attributes to ensure they won’t be held down for long!

The Highlanders showed that if you can match the Bulls up front, you give yourself a good show of beating them. Thankfully few sides are able to do so, especially at Loftus.

I’ve mentioned previously that the reason why the Bulls are the best provincial side in South Africa (and possibly the planet) is not because of talent, but because of their off field structures and attitudes.

Dewald Potgieter’s column on Supersport this week highlights the attitude and resolve of the Bulls as a group, and why you can’t keep a good side down.

Sides lose all the time, but at the Bulls a loss feels like a train smash, and the guys take it very seriously, look within themselves and work damn hard to ensure it doesn’t happen again.

It may not be their only loss this season, but as fans we can’t ask for more than their introspection and 100% effort.

I remain a forever proud Bulls supporter and like all Bulls fans I am right behind our boys, we’ve got a Super Rugby title to win! Go Bulle Go!

The Bulls were given a harsh rugby lesson as they were comprehensively beaten 35-28 on the hallowed stadium of Loftus on Saturday night. But they will be back!

THE BULLS DEFENCE WAS SHOCKING

Immediately after the game, Bulls captain Victor Matfield summed it up fairly politely.

“Ja, that wasn’t good enough. Our attack wasn’t too bad but our defence was shocking. That’s something we’ll have to go and work on. We just have to go back and we’ll be back in 2 weeks time” a disappointed Matfield said.

THE BULLS HAVE 2 WEEKS TO GET IT RIGHT

The Bulls have a bye next week before their next match against last year’s finalists, the Stormers when the Bulls return to Loftus.

It’s a good chance for the Bulls to regroup and work on their deficiencies.

“It’s always nice to have a bye but we’ll have to work hard, get everything right and when we come back play better” said Matfield.

“We will be back in two weeks time after a bye but there is a lot of hard work to do first. The past doesn’t count any more. We need to focus on what’s happening now. We need to play better in 2 weeks time.”

“It’s going to be a big game. It’s the 2 sides that played in the final (in 2010).”

WE’LL FIX OUR MISTAKES

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke was visibly disappointed, but vowed his side will fix their mistakes and come back even stronger this season.

“This was not good enough and it was obvious there were areas where we didn’t play well like at the breakdowns and in broken field play where we created a lot of space for them which almost played into their hand” said Ludeke.

“But we will fix it – they are things that we can fix because we are committed and we have a whole season ahead of us so we are still in the race and hopefully we can sort it out before the next game.”

THE BREAKDOWN WAS A PROBLEM

The Bulls were outmuscled at contact points, and weren’t helped by referee Stu Dickinson’s poor policing of the breakdown.

It’s normally an area the Bulls are strong at, and they work well as a unit. Against the Highlanders they could not manage to steal any balls, and turned over or had their own possession slowed down far too often to build any pressure.

“We are normally very accurate in what we do, it is one of our strengths, but we were not accurate tonight” said Matfield.

The Highlanders were able to get away with flopping over the ball, and highlighted a reason that rucking should return to the game.

“We did not commit enough numbers there (at the tackle) at times and there were instances when they forced us off the ball” said Ludeke.

“We will know better what went wrong there once we have a look at the video, but we definitely didn’t do well there on the night.”

The difference between the Bulls and the Highlanders in Saturday night’s defeat came down to desire and accuracy from a committed Highlanders side.

THE ANALYSIS WAS RIGHT DURING THE WEEK

The Bulls had highlighted the strengths of the Highlanders in the week leading up to the game, but were more focused on improving their possession, the breakdown and accuracy in attack.

“The Highlanders are playing with self-confidence. Their ball retention and breakdown play are particularly impressive, but that said we are looking forward to the challenge” said Ludeke.

“They are also the first overseas team we face, which makes it more exciting for us.”

Ludeke highlighted the importance of possession, ball control, advantage line, territorial advantage and momentum as being critical factors for the Bulls., and was hammered into his side during the week’s training.

“Getting quality possession and making sure we get over the advantage line is going to be important” said Ludeke.

“Once we got momentum and got quick ball against the Cheetahs, things became easier, and that is what will be about the weekend. If we do the right things, the gaps will open up and we can score points.”

THE HIGHLANDERS HAD MORE PASSION AND DESIRE

On Saturday night, perhaps the determining factor in producing a winner was that the Highlanders simply wanted it more.

Under Jamie Joseph the Highlanders have simply returned to traditional rugby values, which is evident in their demeanour and results.

“We have seen the passion with which they play. It’s difficult to stop them when they are on the front foot” acknowledged Ludeke.

It’s very rare that the Bulls lack the motivation and drive at Loftus, in front of their fanatical supporters, and maybe it provides a valuable wake-up call as the side let themselves and their fans down.

“We are more disappointed in the way we played at home as we know that you have to win your home games and we let one slip tonight” said captain Victor Matfield after the loss.

The Bulls were poor as individuals and a collective unit as they were outclassed in their 35-28 defeat at Loftus on Saturday night.

Bulls 28
Tries: Flip van der Merwe, Fourie Du Preez, Bjorn Basson
Conversions: Steyn (2)
Penalties: Steyn (3)

Highlanders 35
Tries: Adam Thomson, Josh Bekhuis, Kade Poki (2)
Conversions: Tony Brown (3)
Penalties: Tony Brown, Robbie Robinson (2

Bulls player rating:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 5

It doesn’t happen often but the Springbok front ranker was totally putplayed by his opponent Chris King. Needed to lead from the front.

2. Chiliboy Ralepelle – 4

Where was Chiliboy? Threw ok into the lineout, but anonymous in the tight exchanges. Hasn’t taken his opportunity presented by Gary Botha’s injury.

3. Werner Kruger – 5

Had a hard night against Jamie MacKintosh and neither won the battle. However not strong enough at the breakdown which has been a strength in recent weeks.

4. Danie Rossouw – 4

Needed to step up taking over from Bakkies Botha but minimal impact with ball inhand or tackling. Just not accurate enough with first time tackles.

5. Victor Matfield (c) – 5

One of his worst games in the Bulls jersey. made plenty of tackles which is usual, but uncharacteristically poor on attack with handling and passing errors. Did not lead well, getting frustrated with Stu

Dickinson.

6. Deon Stegmaan – 6

Earned a yellow card which I felt was unlucky given what the Highlanders were getting away with. Competed ferociously at the breakdown and you can’t ask for much more than that.

7. Dewald Potgieter – 5

Made plenty of tackles and tried gamely but hasn’t started the season strongly on attack. Needs to get over the gain line more frequently and strongly.

8. Pierre Spies – 4

Wasn’t able to get his side over the advantage line when it was needed and not accurate enough on defence.

9. Fourie du Preez – 4

Struggled to get into the game, and spent too much time remonstrating with the ref. When his side is under pressure at the breakdown needs to get the ball out faster otherwise the turnovers occur.

Cost his side 3 points and a shot at leading with a poor tap penalty in the first half.

10. Morne Steyn – 5

Largely reduced to kicking the ball out to touch. His line kicking was adequate, and didn’t have enough ball to work with.

11. Bjorn Basson – 5

Has been disappointing all season. Not strong enough on defence, nor accurate enough on attack. Needs to up his work rate.

12. Wynand Olivier – 3

Made too many handling errors, costing his side momentum and possession.

13. Jaco Pretorius – 5

Worked hard on defence, and ran straight and hard.

14. Gerhard van den Heever – 3

Too upright at times taking the ball forward, and made uncharacteristic handling errors. A poor game all round.

15. Zane Kirchner – 6

Tried gamely but largely reduced to a defensive role.

16. Derick Kuun – 5

Wasn’t able to have the same impact this week as he did against the Cheetahs.

17. Rossouw de Klerk -

Not used

18. Flip van der Merwe – 7

Battled gamely when he came on, but just did not have enough support from his teammates.

19. Juandre Kruger –

Not used

20. Ruan Snyman –

Not used

21. Francois Brummer -

Not used

22. Stephan Dippenaar – 5

Very little opportunity when he came on.

Bulls Forward Pack – 4

Got smashed everywhere. Dominated at the collision. Provided no go forward for their backs.

Bulls Backline – 4

Had little quality ball, but made too many handling errors when they did receive it. Other than Zane Kirchner, it was awful.

Bulls Team Effort – 3

Not what we have come to expect. The defence was at times non-existent with the Highlanders able to makes yardage at will. Were overshadowed by the Highlanders desire and commitment, something that shouldn’t happen at Loftus.

The Bulls meekly surrendered their proud winning streak at Loftus as the Highlanders smashed them in every facet of the game to hold onto a 35-28 win at Loftus on Saturday night.

Bulls 28
Tries: Flip van der Merwe, Fourie Du Preez, Bjorn Basson
Conversions: Steyn (2)
Penalties: Steyn (3)

Highlanders 35
Tries: Adam Thomson, Josh Bekhuis, Kade Poki (2)
Conversions: Tony Brown (3)
Penalties: Tony Brown, Robbie Robinson (2

Half-time: Bulls 6 Highlanders 11

The Bulls were totally outclassed as a determined Highlanders played with a passion that brought them a highly unfancied victory, and ended the Bulls run of 18 successive wins at Loftus, and 20 at home (there were 2 at Orlando stadium in Soweto).

The Highlanders desire was evident throughout the full 80 minutes of the match as they ran and tackled themselves to a standstill to complete the season’s biggest upset.

From the first kickoff Gerhard van den Heever carried the ball into contact with an upright body position, and the Highlanders piled in and put the pressure on with territory dominance initially.

During the first half the Bulls were reduced to scraps of possession, often in their own danger area, and could only boot the ball back into touch and give it back to a Highlanders side that tried and succeeded in dominating up front, and then mixing interplay between their forwards and backs well to create holes all over the field.

There were gaps wider than the red sea everywhere as the Bulls fell off tackle after tackle.

Any time the Bulls could get the ball it was coughed up with poor handling and poor security at the breakdown points.

BULLS LOST BATTLE OF THE BREAKDOWN

The battle at the breakdown was fiercely contested, but the Highlanders cleaned up in the results.

They were aided by ref Stu Dickinson, and it clearly frustrated the Bulls who had no response. It also resulted in the sinbinning of Deon Stegmann which took its tool on a Bulls side already making far too many tackles. Eventually the energy sapping tackling took some of the polish off the Bulls attacking game which was feeling the pressure.

At half time Bulls coach Frans Ludeke acknowledged his side was getting monstered at the breakdown.

Ja for sure, breakdown we are losing. There are no numbers, (and we are) not accurate. We have to fix it up” Ludeke told supersport.

POOR REFEREEING BY STU DICKINSON

It was very evident how frustrated Bulls captain Victor Matfield was with referee Stu Dickinson, not understanding the calls going against this side.

I totally agree as I felt Dickinson was very one-sided, the Highlanders were able to fall over the ball when the Bulls had it far too often without being penalised, and this nullified the Bulls attacking game. It was not until the finishing stages of the game before Dickinson finally went to his pocket, but by then it was too late.

Whilst it contributed immensely to the pattern of the match, knocking the Bulls off their stride, as a champion side you have to be better than that and stop complaining, and figure out a way to combat what the opposition are doing, The whinging had no effect, so rather try and highlight it to the referee in another manner.

At the end of the day it was not a fair contest as I felt the Bulls were not able to do the same at the breakdown, but the Highlanders were smarter in protecting their ball and doing more with it to ensure the Bulls could not get their hands on it.

The Highlanders were the more passionate side, played to the referee and deserved their victory as they were the better side in most facets of the game.

WHERE IT WENT WRONG FOR THE BULLS

Far too often in the past 2 seasons the Bulls have started badly. They handed momentum to the Highlanders, which they never regained until the closing stages.

The defence missed far too many tackles, and maybe that contributed to the lack of accuracy in other parts of the Bulls game.

The Highlanders took the Bulls on up front and gained dominance. It’s the key to beating the Bulls and thankfully doesn’t happen too often!

Because of the pressure, the Bulls handed the ball back to the Highlanders far too often by kicking back into touch and remaining in their half. Maybe they need to run it more from within their own half and set up more phases, and wait for gaps to appear. Otherwise the playmakers such as Morne Steyn and Fourie du Preez have no bal to work with which is crucial to allowing the Bulls to dictate terms.

Mind you, too many dropped passes and handling errors didn’t help as it broke their momentum.

The decision making was also not great. At one stage in the first half, Morne Steyn could have kicked the Pulls into a 9-8 lead, but du Preez opted for the quick tap. The Bulls perfer to build a lead, and that could have changed the dynamics of the game.

The kick chase was poor all match. Too often the Highlanders received the ball and were able to run the ball back at pace, which got them on the front foot, and the Bulls back pedalling at a rate of knots.

We’ve barely seen any attacking play from Bjorn Basson this season, nor the box kicks from du Preez which is an indication the Bulls have not had enough quality possession to stamp their game on the opposition. The tight five need to regroup and start laying a platform for the Bulls to get the blue machine moving forward once more!

Bulls Player Ratings

The Bulls are arguably the best provincial side in South Africa and the Southern hemisphere, largely the result of great depth, planning and foresight.

I believe the Bulls are so successful because of their off field structures and attitude.

They have great depth, great attitudes and a great atmosphere. This extends from the board to the coaches to the young Bulletjies coming through the junior ranks.

Even though the Bulls recruit from all around the country, they usually do so with young guys who embrace the union and make Pretoria their home.

It creates a family focused on rugby and results, but also a tight knit group of guys who play for each other, the jersey and what the Bulls represent.

It has nothing to do with the available talent or luck.

DEPTH HIGHLIGHTED AGAINST HIGHLANDERS

The Bulls decided to rest Springbok lock Bakkies Botha this week who sustained a bruised foot against the Cheetahs.

Coach Frans Ludeke has been able to replace Botha with another Springbok in Danie Rossouw, who with 103 Super Rugby caps is more experienced in this competition than the man he is replacing!

Yet another Springbok, Flip van der Merwe is also on the bench, with the highly promising Juandre Kruger also on the bench. Another promising player Fudge Mabeta is 5th in line!

METICULOUS PLANNING

Frans Ludeke has a plethora of riches at lock and most of the forward positions. The depth at hooker has been tested slightly with the departure of Bandise Maku, but even with an injury to Gary Botha, Ludeke still has a Springbok in Chiliboy Ralepelle and a 2 time Super Rugby winning (2007 and 2009) hooker replacement.

The area the Bulls look lightest in is a flyhalf replacement and the centres. There is young talent coming through, but it may be a couple of years before there is real depth there.

“The Bulls worked for the last 10 years to get into a situation to have such depth and the loyalty of players like Danie and Flip (Van der Merwe) is amazing because they could have gone to other unions long ago and earned starting berths” said Ludeke.

Captain Victor Matfield highlighted the vision and family values as key areas for his sides strength.

“For us it is about building and we have been doing that at the Bulls for the last few years” said Matfield.

“We are like a family and that is why we have guys like Danie and Flip who will play second-fiddle to a guy like Bakkies – they want to be part of something special.”

The Bulls return to Fortress Loftus as they play their first Super Rugby match for 2011 at home to the Highlanders.

Both the Bulls and Highlanders are unbeaten after 2 rounds, a position familiar for the defending champions, but not so for the Highlanders.

Can the Highlanders replicate their form away from home, or will the Bulls continue their dominance at Loftus?

TEAM SELECTION

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke has opted to rest Springbok lock Bakkies Botha who picked up a minor foot injury in last week’s match against the Cheetahs.

He has the luxury of being able to call upon another Springbok and 103 cap veteran Danie Rossouw who excelled last week. Ludeke can even still produce another Springbok lock in Flip van der Merwe on the bench, along with the talented Juandre Kruger who will earn his first Super Rugby cap.

BULLS NEED AN 80 MINUTE PERFORMANCE

The mark of a champion side is one that wins even when it hasn’t been playing well or hasn’t played for the full 80 minutes.

However the Bulls set vey high standards and one of the things that makes them so good is the desire to continually improve and measure themselves by their own standards.

This week captain Victor Matfield emphasised the improvements he seeks from his side, “We are happy with our position on the log, but not with the performances that got us there. We need to play for longer periods and not only produce 40 minutes here and 40 minutes there. This will be a huge challenge, but we trained well. We still need to execute on the day though.”

THE CHALLENGE POSED BY THE HIGHLANDERS

The Highlanders are a no frills, no nonense side who do the basics well, and display the same hard nosed attitude of coach Jamie Joseph.

Their strength is their forward pack, and driving the ball up close to the ruck, winning the war of attrition before giving ball wider when the gaps are exposed.

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke also highlighted the differences the Highlanders present compared with the South African sides.

“We took note of the Highlanders’ conditioning and the passion they play with” said Ludeke earlier in the week.

“The New Zealand side will pose new challenges, as they have a different style to what we have encountered so far in the competition. One of their strengths, like all the New Zealand sides, is their ability to get front-foot ball and to get the ball into space.”

“They like to off-load in the tackle situation and are very competitive at the breakdown. They will be a tough nut to crack.”

Pierre Spies also highlighted how the Bulls still feel they owe them one for 2009, and will need to be at the top of their game.

“They are a difficult side. We lost to them in Palmerston North in 2009 when we weren’t really focused. We know we dare not make the same mistake again” said Spies.

MILESTONES

The Bulls have an impressive winning sequence of 20 home games of which 18 have been at Loftus.

If the Bulls can secure their 21st successive home victory, they will equal the second highest number of wins at home, equalling the Blues record from 1996 to 1998 (but still behind the 26 of the Crusaders).

The Bulls have also only lost once in their past 26 matches in South Africa (when they played their B side ahead of the 2010 semi-final).

PREDICTION

The Highlanders best chance is to keep it tight and win the battle of the forwards.

The Bulls need to vary their play, move the Highlanders around, and the gaps will appear for their game breakers all over the field. They’ll need to go the full 80 and build a lead, because this Highlanders side never gives up until the final whistle.

Bulls by 12.

Go Bulle Go!

Vodacom Bulls:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
2. Chiliboy Ralepelle
3. Werner Kruger
4. Danie Rossouw
5. Victor Matfield (c)
6. Deon Stegmann
7. Dewald Potgieter
8. Pierre Spies
9. Fourie du Preez
10. Morne Steyn
11. Bjorn Basson
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Jaco Pretorius
14. Gerhard van den Heever
15. Zane Kirchner

16. Derick Kuun
17. Rossouw de Klerk
18. Flip van der Merwe
19. Juandre Kruger
20. Ruan Snyman
21. Francois Brummer
22. Stephan Dippenaar

Highlanders:

1. Jamie MacKintosh (c)
2. Jason Rutledge
3. Chris King
4. Jarrad Hoeata
5. Josh Bekhuis
6. Adam Thompson
7. Alando Soakai
8. Nasi Manu
9. Jimmy Cowan
10. Robbie Robinson
11. Kade Poki
12. Shaun Treeby
13. Kendrick Lynn
14. Siale Piutau
15. Ben Smith

16. Brayden Mitchell
17. Bronson Murray
18. Tom Donnelly
19. John Hardie
20. Aaron Smith
21. Tony Brown
22. Telusa Veainu

Previous Super Rugby results:

2006: Bulls 23, Highlanders 16 (Pretoria)
2007: Bulls 22, Highlanders 13 (Dunedin)
2008: Bulls 47, Highlanders 17 (Pretoria)
2009: Bulls 12, Highlanders 36 (Palmerston North)
2010: Bulls 50, Highlanders 35 (Pretoria)

It wasn’t pretty, but the Bulls showed plenty of courage and determination to come back and snatch a 25-23 victory over the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Friday night.

In 2010 the Bulls were ambushed by the Cheetahs and fell behind to an early try by Jongi Nokwe. Tonight the suffered a similar sstart, which was the result of poor handling, a trait that affected their entire first half performance.

Thankfully they only conceeded 3 points, and were then able to earn a lead thanks to a penalty and a Bakkies Botha try. However whilst they looked once in the Cheetahs 22, it was a struggle to get there as they gave up possession too easily and frequently with poor handling and indecisive running.

The early loss of Juan Smith who was under an injury cloud all week was a major setback for the Cheetahs, but he’d be proud of the commitment shown by his side.

The Cheetahs were able to disrupt the Bulls pattern by scrapping for everything, and consequently the Bulls were not able to implement their normal kick chase game, or bring Kirchner into the attack. It limited their opportunities, and gave the Cheetahs their own opportunities.

On attack for the Bulls, if Wynand Olivier struggles to get over the advantage line, the Bulls struggle to get going forward with their wider excursions. The loose trio play well as individuals, but have struggled to combine well as a unit so far this year.

It was only the wayward goal kicking of the normally reliant Naas Olivier that kept the Bulls in the game, and only 3 points behind at half-time.

SECOND HALF FIGHTBACK

The second half saw a much better performance from the Bulls, in direct contrast to their first game against the Lions.

Unfortunately it was the Cheetahs who took advantage of their opportunities however, slightly against the run of play, to score tries through Robert Ebersohn and Ashley Johnson that opened a 15 point lead.

As with 2010 however, the Bulls showed great composure to fight back. The introduction of Danie Rossouw and Flip van der Merwe helped, as both were strong ball carriers who also offloaded well. Once they got the Bulls going forward and shored up the scrums, the Bulls had a nice attacking platform to operate from.

A yellow card to Wilhelm Steenkamp helpeed the Bulls, and the opportunities were starting to present itself as the 14 men and constant Bulls pressure meant that tackles were starting to fall off for tthe Cheetahs.

The Bulls did grass at least good 2-3 try scoring opportunities, but in the end the constant pressure created 2 second half tries which were enough to seal it for the Bulls.

After the match Victor Matfield admitted he was happy to take anoither ugly win over a pretty loss any day, and was happy his side showed the necessary composure to come bac and win.

FRUSTRATION WITH CRAIG JOUBERT

Referee Craig Joubert is not the Bulls favourite referee! He was the man in the middle when the Bulls lost to both the Blues and Reds last year, matches when captain Victor Matfield got frustrated with his officiating.

He did ref the Super 14 final, a match where he favoured the Bulls, much to the Stormers discontent.

It was a similar situation again for the Bulls on Friday night, as I thought he handled the breakdown poorly, which was messy, and inconsistent in the rulings. Victor Matfield was once again frustrated with Joubert, and even the normally placcid Fourie du Preez was reprimanded by Joubert.

I’m not sure why he is rated so highly, as I don’t think he can handle the most important area of the match (the rucks), an area that often determines the outcome of matches. Let’s just hope he doesn’t have to ref the Bulls much more this season!

Match Stats

Bulls Player Ratings