Sanjay's Rugby World

The Bulls had some strong individual performances, but failed to galvanise as a team in their 25-23 victory over the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.

Bulls 25
Tries: Bakkies Botha, Danie Rossouw, Fourie du Preez
Conversions: Morne Steyn (2)
Penalties: Morne Steyn (2)

Cheetahs 23
Tries: Andries Strauss, Robert Ebersohn, Ashley Johnson
Conversion: Naas Olivier
Penalties: Naas Olivier (2)

Bulls player rating:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 6

Man of the match in the first game, the big man struggled to get going and impose himself on the game.

2. Chiliboy Ralepelle – 6

Pinpoint with his lineout throwing, but failed to make the necessary impact in the loose.

3. Werner Kruger – 7

Provided an important right shoulder with his scrummaging which was important later in the game. Always looks for the turnover at the breakdown too which is handy for his side.

4. Bakkies Botha – 6

Read the space well to score in the corner, and carried the ball strongly at times, but failed to unite the effort of his pack into a solid performance which is his job.

5. Victor Matfield (c) – 8

Made a mountain of tackles, including a great cover tackle when the Cheetahs were away down the right hand flank in the first half. Missed a few, but worked tirelessly all around the field, leading from the front.

6. Deon Stegmaan – 5

Didn’t do much wrong, but not one of his better games.

7. Dewald Potgieter – 5

Largely anonymous for periods of the game. Needs to be stronger with ball in hand in the blindside flank role, but does a mountain of work on defence.

8. Pierre Spies – 7

Carried the ball strongly in the second half, giving his side great go forward. Showed greater physicality in the tackle, and looks set to have a big year.

9. Fourie du Preez – 6

Did not have much ball to work with in the first half, but got better as the game progressed, and was able to exert more and more control on the game.

10. Morne Steyn – 6

A mixed bag for Steyn, missing 2 difficult kicks at goal in the first half, but finding his range after that.
Created some nice linebreaks and opportunities with ball in hand, but his decision making and handling let him down at crucial times when the Bulls needed it most.

11. Bjorn Basson – 4

Had a poor workrate and defensive game, which are not his strengths. Chasing the high kicks he could have done better and needs to repay the faith in his purchase to the Bulls.

12. Wynand Olivier – 5

Not one of his better games, failing to get the better of Andries Strauss when he was on the field, and get over the advantage line. Needs to combine with Jaco Pretorius more on attack.

13. Jaco Pretorius – 5

Struggling to make the desired impact in midfield for the Bulls. Needs to up his game in all areas.

14. Gerhard van den Heever – 8

Looked extremely dangerous with ball in hand, stepping well and able to seemingly ghost through tacklers.

15. Zane Kirchner – 7

Had limited chance on attack, but covered back well on defence.

16. Derick Kuun – 7

Used at flank when he came on, adding versatility to the Bulls bench. Showed great urgency and helped lift the tempo for the Bulls.

17. Rossouw de Klerk -

Not used

18. Flip van der Merwe – 7

Carried the ball strongly and added much needed grunt to the Bulls forward effort.

19. Danie Rossouw – 9

Made a massive impact when he came on, getting the Bulls on the front foot and creating try scoring chances.
Scored an important try, and was devastating with ball in hand, including one back handed flick pass that was incredible.

20. Ruan Snyman –

Not used

21. Francois Brummer -

Not used

22. Stephan Dippenaar – 6

Did his job when he replaced Pretorius.

Stats from the Bulls 25-23 victory over the Frees State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Friday night.

Bulls 25
Tries: Bakkies Botha, Danie Rossouw, Fourie du Preez
Conversions: Morne Steyn (2)
Penalties: Morne Steyn (2)

Cheetahs 23
Tries: Andries Strauss, Robert Ebersohn, Ashley Johnson
Conversion: Naas Olivier
Penalties: Naas Olivier (2)

Half-time: Bulls 8 Cheetahs 11

Whilst there are many similarities between the champion Bulls and Boks, the most glaring difference in their fortunes in 2010 came down to the ability to respond under pressure.

Springbok Captain Victor Matfield

In 2009, both sides performed brilliantly, sweeping aside all those before them.

THE DIFFERENCE IS IN THE COACHING

However in 2010, their fortunes were vastly different. In my mind, this highlighted the difference in the coaches of the respective sides.

At the Bulls, the coaches are still heavily influenced by the ‘Heyneke Meyer’ way. This starts off the field, with Meyer a big disciple of personal development, not just physical development.

Each year the Bulls brains trust plan meticulously for their season, and the hard work begins in December in George.

It gives the players the necessary physical conditioning, but more importantly the mental conditioning to know they are free to express themselves on the field and back their ability.

In contrast the Boks go back to their laager with each defeat, following rigid game plans that make their players play like robots and question themselves under pressure.

THEY LIKE TO LEAD

Both the Bulls and Boks like to start strongly. They like to build an early lead, giving them greater confidence to utilise the 15 man game.

Once they have established a lead, they like to produce their best rugby in the first half, before slowly grinding their way to a victory based on physical domination and making their opposition play catch up rugby which leads to mistakes and a supply of penalties to keep the scoreboard ticking over, and maintaining an uncatchable lead.

2010 saw an end to that trend.

THE ABILITY TO RESPOND UNDER PRESSURE

In their first 7 matches, the Bulls fell behind. In almost half of their matches, 1 or 2 further scores from the opposition could have killed their chances of victory very early in the game.

However to their credit, the Bulls were able to bounce back and never faltered in the belief of their game plan or their personnel.

The Bulls were able to secure victory in their first 6 matches (Cheetahs, Brumbies, Waratahs, Highlanders, Hurricanes and Force), before failing to reel in the Blues. To their credit, and on tour, the Bulls regrouped from their first loss to bounce back emphatically in their match against the Chiefs.

And then the Lions, Sharks and Crusaders made the Bulls fight to the end to secure victory too.

Of their 10 victories, the Bulls could quite conceivable have lost 9. What makes a champion side however is winning tight matches, and responding positively under pressure.

COMPARE THIS TO THE BOKS

In the Tri-Nations, the Boks lost 5 out of 6 matches.

Like the Bulls they went behind in every match. They could easily have won 6 out of 6, yet could only post the 1 victory.

We have enough games to show quite different trends between the 2 sides.

10 out of 13 paints a completely different story to 1 out 6.

With so many personnel common to both sides, the only differing variable are the coaching staffs.

THE KEY TO THE BOKS TITLE DEFENCE

To be the best, you have to be able to respond prove you have the best skill, and the best conditioning when it counts most.

To deliver physically, you have to have the mental application and confidence to shine when the going gets tough.

I am sure this year will show the Bulls are once again the best in the business from South Africa in Super Rugby.

The key to the Boks World Cup title defence may lie in just how well the Bok brains trust can emulate their counterparts from the Bulls.

The Bulls take on the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Friday night in their second round Super Rugby encounter.

The Cheetahs played extremely poorly in their opening match against the Sharks, mixing the wrong tactics with poor execution, and were just lucky the Sharks were too inept to punish them.

The Bulls gave a glimpse of what they are capable of against the Lions, before going running out of puff for the second half and struggling to regain any momentum against a buoyant Lions side.

TEAM SELECTION

The Bulls have made 2 changes to their side, with injury forcing the inclusion of Chiliboy Ralepelle for Gary Botha, and Jaco Pretorius recovering from his back strain to take his place in midfield.

The departure of Botha means that Derick Kuun returns to cover the hooking role, and interestingly Frans Ludeke has picked both his Springbok reserve locks on the bench, with no genuine loose forward cover.

The Cheetahs will be so glad to have captain Juan Smith back. He makes a massive difference, but does not have a lot of experienced, proven performers in his side to back him up. One has to feel for Smith, for it’s a job to large for one man to do.

CHANCE FOR CHILIBOY

Chiliboy Ralepelle should get a few matches to prove his worth at hooker given the AC joint injury to Gary Botha.

Due to injury and opportunities, it will only be the fifth time the 25-year-old hooker has been in the starting line-up, and his first since 11 April 2009 against the Waratahs. Ralepelle needs some solid performances to silence his critics, and prove his worth.

Coach Frans Ludeke, said he is a well respected member of his squad.

“Chili has been part of our squad for a long time and is highly rated. It’s a pity that the rest of the country could not see the best of him because of all his injuries, but we know what we have in him. He is good enough to start games for the Bulls.

MILESTONES

The Bulls have lost just 1 of their past 26 games on SA soil, and lost only once against South African opposition in 18 matches!

PREDICTION

There may be some initial resistance if the Cheetahs start well, but I’m expecting the same precision the Bulls showed in the first half against the Lions, but for a longer period of time.

That spells danger for the Cheetahs, who looked disjointed against the Sharks on attack. Juan Smith can get them going forward, and lead from the front, and against a strong Bulls defence, they’ll back themselves to defend a fairly innocuous attack.

Away from home the Bulls will happy just to get a win, but they should be able to do so with a bonus point.

Bulls by 12.

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

Cheetahs:

1. Coenie Ooshuizen
2. Rayno Barnes
3. WP Nel
4. Waltie Vermeulen
5. Wilhelm Steenkamp
6. Frans Viljoen
7. Juan Smith (c)
8. Kabamba Floors
9. Sarel Pretorius
10. Naas Olivier
11. Ryno Benjamin
12. Andries Strauss
13. Robert Ebersohn
14. Philip Burger
15. Hennie Daniller

16. Skipper Badenhorst
17. Kobus Calldo
18. Francois Uys
19. Ashley Johnson
20. Tewis de Bruyn
21. Sias Ebersohn
22. Riaan Viljoen

Previous Super 14 results:

2006: Bulls 30, Cheetahs 18 (Bloemfontein)
2007: Bulls 24, Cheetahs 20 (Pretoria)
2008: Bulls 60, Cheetahs 20 (Bloemfontein)
2009: Bulls 29, Cheetahs 20 (Pretoria)
2010: Bulls 51, Cheetahs 34 (Bloemfontein)

The Bulls had mixed emotions after Saturday night’s 24-20 victory over the Lions at Ellis Park.

They were happy to have started the season with an important win, but are not satisfied with the manner of victory.

Captain Victor Matfield emphasised the importance of an away win, albeit just 40 minutes from fortress Loftus.

“We knew it was going to be tough away from home, and naturally there is still a lot of work to be done and we know that. We are happy, and we will take an away win on any day.”

THE BULLS WERE NOT MATCH FIT

In the last few years, the Bulls have favoured minimal warm-up games due to the length of their season (which is usually 1-2 weeks longer than the other South African sides!)

The majority of the Bulls players were thus only playing their second match of the year, with most having played against the Premier XV at Mbombela stadium.

They started off beautifully, and looked to be in fine form for the first 40 minutes. The fact that they faded was due to the Lions getting stronger and shifting momentum, lack of discipline but most importantly I am sure it was a lack of match fitness.

“I think we made too many mistakes in the second half and we gave the ball back to them the whole time and conceded too many penalties” said Matfield afterwards.

THE BULLS WILL GET BETTER

The Bulls have proven time and time again, they are a side that get better and better as the season progresses.

I am sure they’ll be a lot better for Friday night’s match against the Cheetahs having had a good solid hit out.

Coach Frans Ludeke highlighted areas the Bulls will be working on this week, “It’s about keeping the ball. We used the ball well in the first half and could even have scored another two or three tries. But we conceded too much possession in the second half. We will have to look after our possession better.”

Centurion Fourie du Preez also said it was nice to get the win, but the Bulls will improve.

“Our goal was to pull this one off and it happened. My shoulder also held out well and it’s always nice to be victorious in a milestone like a 100th game. But we can play a lot better than that and that will be the focus this week” said Du Preez.

BULLS SET THEIR OWN STANDARDS

One of the things that has always impressed me about this Bulls side has been it’s work ethic and application off the field.

Bulls flyer Gerhard van den Heever revealed how his spectacular 60m solo try was not just a matter of luck.

“We spoke about (Elton) Jantjies and his chip kicks during the week and I made sure that I covered that. From there, a gap opened up in midfield after the ruck had moved and I took from there.”

The Bulls started off strongly but faded in the second half as they clung on for a 24-20 win at Coca-Cola park in Johannesburg

Bulls 24
Tries: Zane Kirchner, Gerhard van den Heever
Conversion: Steyn
Penalties: Steyn (4)

Lions 20
Tries: Waylon Murray, Martin Bezuidenhout, Warren Whiteley
Conversion: Elton Jantjies
Penalties: Elton Jantjies

Bulls player rating:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp – 6

Earned the Supersport man of the match and had a strong initial showing. Showed no signs of rustiness or loss or form in coming back from his broken arm sustained last year, but midway through the second half he was sucking up the big ones as his match fitness needs to be regained.

2. Gary Botha – 8

Strong in the tight loose, and controlled the Bulls pack well. Suffered an early injury and maybe his loss was felt.

3. Werner Kruger – 8

Looked fantastic as he was strong around the breakdown. Can act as an extra loose forward and made a couple of important turnovers pilfering the ball. Could be a massive year for Kruger who is underrated in the Bulls pack.

4. Bakkies Botha – 6

A mixed bag from the big enforcer. Strong taking the ball up, and always present the ball well. Defended strongly, but gave away too many penalties for offside, putting pressure on his side.

5. Victor Matfield (c) – 5

The banker in the lineouts, made his tackles as per normal, but was quiet for periods of the match. Probably just needed a match to get back up to speed.

6. Deon Stegmaan – 7

Was unable to make any steals, but fought hard at the breakdown. Is being used more as a ball carrier and got over the gain line well.

7. Dewald Potgieter – 6

Industrious early on, but another to fade as the match wore on. Did little wrong, but needs to be more effective with ball in hand.

8. Pierre Spies – 5

Largely anonymous for large periods of the game. Lacked accuracy both in defence and attack, and may also take a few weeks to get back to full form.

9. Fourie du Preez -8

Read the game well, and defended brilliantly out wide when he needed to. Could have taken more responsibility with the general kicking, but probably lacking in confidence slightly. Will be happy with his 100th game.

10. Morne Steyn – 6

Missed two kicks at goal, albeit difficult attempts. Solid in general play.

11. Bjorn Basson – 5

The game never really flowed his way, and could have been used more with the kick chase.

12. Wynand Olivier – 6

Typically solid game.

13. Stephan Dippenaar – 5

Gave away a crucial penalty that cost his side a yellow card, but potentially saved the try. Needs to create more space on attack for a lethal back 3.

14. Gerhard van den Heever – 9

Scored a brilliant individual try and showed the folly of leaving him out of last year’s Springbok squad in place of Odwa Ndungane.

15. Zane Kirchner – 8

The rib injury didn’t look 100%, but battled gamely on attack and defence. Hit the line well, making space for those around him, and made the spot tackles when they were needed as the last line of defence.

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle – 5

Failed to make an impact when he arrived, and the Lions scrum was able to cope better when he arrived.

17. Rossouw de Klerk -

Not used

18. Flip van der Merwe – 6

Minimal impact.

19. Derick Kuün – 6

Worked hard on defence.

20. Ruan Snyman –

Not used

21. Francois Brummer -

Not used

22. Jaco van der Westhuyzen -

Not used

The Bulls required all their experience and a fair bit of luck to repel a desperate and passionate Lions side 24-20 at Coca-Cola Park in Johannesburg in the Super Rugby opener.

Bulls 24
Tries: Zane Kirchner, Gerhard van den Heever
Conversion: Steyn
Penalties: Steyn (4)

Lions 20
Tries: Waylon Murray, Martin Bezuidenhout, Warren Whiteley
Conversion: Elton Jantjies
Penalties: Elton Jantjies

Half-time: Bulls 24 Lions 5

In front of the largest crowd at Ellis Park in many years, the Lions were unable to deliver upon the weight of expectation.

It may have partly been due to nerves, but more probably it was the experience of the Bulls who looked extremely slick and cohesive as a side who know what is required at this level.

The Bulls were able to feed off small Lions errors and kept the ball brilliantly through phases, piling the pressure on the Lions.

Penalties came the way of the Bulls, and they took their chances well to score 2 tries and open a very handy lead which was 15-0 at one stage, and then 24-5 at half-time.

Zane Kirchner hit the line brilliantly on many occasions, showing just how valuable a player he truly is. He scored a deserved try after the Bulls created the overlap.

Shortly after, Gerhard van den Heever ran 65m after claiming a wayward Elton Janties chip kick to score what will surely be one of the tries of the season.

At this stage the Bulls looked unbeatable.

Further penalties in the Lions half were kicked at goal, possibly signalling a change in intent as the Bulls had earlier opted to go for the lineouts. This mindset may have started the Bulls problems later in the match.

The second half was in complete contrast to the first. The Lions looked more settled, having shook off their early nerves.

They held the ball for long periods, and were able to make plenty of yardage, especially from James Kamana who looked superb in replacing Jaco Taute. The value of straight, incisive running got the Lions forward momentum.

The Bulls could only defend and defend, and when travelling backwards at a great rate of knots it’s hard to get the defensive alignment correct, and consequently the Bulls gave away many penalties for being offside.

The steady stream of possession and territory heaped immense pressure on the Bulls who will largely be satisfied with their defence, as the Lions could only manage 2 second half tries.

Had Jantjies been more accurate with his goal kicking, the Lions could have earnt a lead. Instead they were playing catch up for the match, and when the crunch time came, the Bulls were able to wind down the clock and grind out an important victory.

The Bulls pack in particular looked jaded in the second half as the pace of the game got to them, but having played the least number of warm-up matches of the South African sides, they’ll appreciate the 80 minute effort.

The Lions showed that things are indeed changing in Johannesburg and were impressive in many facets of the game. If they can cut down the silly errors and perform consistently in this manner, they’ll be tough to beat by the end of the season.

Bulls Player Ratings

The Bulls start their 2011 season as they aim for the three-peat!

The Bulls meet a Lions side who have a weight of expectation as things start changing at the Johannesburg based union.

The Lions have been impressive so far in the pre-season, but experience and class is on the side of the Bulls, who can step up instantly when it matters.

TEAM SELECTION

The Lions squad is unproven, with some talented individuals. Interestingly, coach John Mitchell has not favoured experience, with Wikus van Heerden and Cobus Grobbelaar sitting on the bench at the expense of youth and enthusiasm in the starting lineup.

The lock pair and loose forwards have a massive battle to cope with the proven performers of the Bulls.

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke is able to name a side full of Springboks, with the core of the squad from his champion sides of the past 2 years. He can even afford to leave Springbok lock Flip van der Merwe out of his 22 altogether!

Zane Kirchner has passed a fitness test after recovering from a pre-season rib injury, whilst centre Jaco Pretorius is not so lucky (back strain). However it gives Stephan Dippenaar another start, and considering he will get plenty of game time this season, it is not a bad thing.

BULLS FOCUSED ON THEMSELVES

Despite the hype surrounding the Lions, the Bulls are focusing on what they need to do, and playing the familiar Bulls brand of rugby.

The confidence that comes from being a champion side is evident in that the Bulls know they have nothing to feat if they measure themselves by their own standards and own game.

“(The Lions) are a well organised side. This weekend is more about us though and what we can do for ourselves” said coach Frans Ludeke in the build-up.

“We want to be accurate and we back our potential. At the end of the day you can only control the controllables, and if we make sure we are accurate, and can execute, then we will be satisfied.”

THE BEST IS YET TO COME FROM THE BULLS

The thing that has always impressed me most about the Bulls since Heyneke Meyer took charge is the mental aspect to their game.

Many have said the Bulls are an ageing squad, and they’ll be in decline when many of their stalwarts depart after this year.

However Victor Matfield epitomises that nobody at the Bulls buys into that garbage, and the Bulls simply focus on being even better every season.

“Things haven’t changed that much during the off-season when we worked hard on improving some facets of our game, but I do feel our best is yet to come” said captain Matfield.

MILESTONES

Champion scrumhalf Fourie du Preez will play his 100th Super Rugby game for the Bulls.

He joins current players, Matfield and Rossouw (and Pedrie Wannenburg) as centurions.

While he admitted it may take him a few weeks to get back to his best, as a very modest man I’m sure he’ll have a massive game as he will be amped to perform at his best.

The Bulls have also only lost twice on South African soil since mid 2008.

In fact they’ve lost 1 of their past 25 games on SA soil, and lost only once against South African opposition in 17 matches! Playing the Lions should be a walk in Ellis Park!

Go Bulle Go!

Vodacom Bulls:

1. Gurtho Steenkamp
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. Bjorn Basson
12. Wynand Olivier
13. Stephan Dippenaar
14. Gerhard van den Heever
15. Zane Kirchner

16. Chiliboy Ralepelle
17. Rossouw de Klerk
18. Danie Rossouw
19. Derick Kuun
20. Ruan Snyman
21. Francois Brummer
22. Jaco van der Westhuyzen

Lions:

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

16. Martin Bezuidenhout
17. Kevin Buys
18. Wikus van Heerden
19. Cobus Grobbelaar
20. Rory Kockott
21. Burton Francis
22. James Kamana

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)

Young Bulls scrumhalf sensation Francois Hougaard has suffered a stress fracture to his foot that puts him in a race against time for the Bulls Super Rugby opener against the Lions.

Francois Hougaard

Team doctor Org Strauss confirmed that a scan had been positive for a stress fracture in his 5th metatarsal.

Hougaard is on crutches for 10 days, and should be off them by the end of January.

Stress fractures can be complicated injuries however, depending on their severity, but the fact this was picked up early and the symptoms are not longstanding should ensure a speedy recovery.

It remains to be seen whether Hougaard will be fit for the Bulls Super Rugby season opener against the Lions at Ellis Park on February 19, but they are well covered at scrumhalf with the return from injury of Fourie du Preez.

Hougaard is likely to have more game time at scrumhalf for the Bulls this season as opposed to playing almost exclusively on the wing last year.

He will be important to managing du Preez’s workload and ensuring the Springbok lynchpin is not overloaded ahead of the World Cup.

Provided on what happens with Bjorn Basson’s drug hearing, Hougaard could well find he spends a large part of the season on the win again.

We wish Hougaard a speedy recovery, as he is a much needed member in the Bulls Super Rugby aspirations!

Having started 2010 so superbly, the Bulls faded in the second half of the year. With a decent rest, plenty of pre-season training, and a good kick up the ass, the Bulls will be back in 2011!

The Bulls will be hungry for success in 2011, and that should make their opponents beware!

In the meantime, Bulls fans can rejoice in some of the happier memories and wait for new ones to take place in 2011.

Die Bloubul

Go Bulle Go

Orlando Bulls – Nkosi Sikeleli

The Bulls will play 2 warm-up matches in preparation for the 2011 Super Rugby season.

The Bulls have announced that they will play the Eastern Province Kings and a Premier XV ahead of the Super Rugby season.

The Bulls kick off their warm-up schedule by playing the Eastern Province Kings in Port Elizabeth.

As a firm supporter of the idea the Kings deserve to be playing Super Rugby, which is touted for 2012, I’m not quite sure how this match will help, or how significant the result actually is, despite many saying this is part of the Kings preparation for super rugby in 2012.

It should be a well-supported match however, and no doubt will win fans for both the Bulls and the Kings.

The Bulls then move to Nelspruit to the Mbombela stadium to take on a Premier XV on February 5th.

According to promoter Willem Strauss, the Premier XV will predominantly consist of players from the Mpumalanga Pumas, with the possibility of some fringe Bulls players too. This could be important as it will be the last chance for the Bulls to prepare before their first super rugby match against the Lions at Ellis Park on February 19.

Blue Bulls CEO, Barend van Graan indicated the willingness to spread the Bulls brand across the country.

“We are looking forward to the opportunity to play in Port Elizabeth and Nelspruit as it will give our fans outside of Pretoria a chance to see the team play.”

The Bulls will be playing in 2 of South Africa’s new stadiums, however I would have liked to have seen another game in the heart of the Bulls northern terrritory at the new Peter Mokaba stadium in Polokwane.

Even with only 2 warm-up matches, I am sure the Bulls are well rested, fit and prepared as they look to defend their super rugby title, and become the inaugural winners of the Super 15.

Bulls 2011 Super Rugby Fixtures

Can the Bulls stay at the top in 2011?

The Bulls have been the best performing side in Super 14 history. They have had a very simple strategy to enable their success: get the minimum required points in the early games and away from home, and then make sure they don’t lose at Loftus on the run home which has enabled them to gain home semi-final advantage.

The Bulls have not lost at Loftus since midway through the 2008 season. They have largely been unbeatable in South Africa, and importantly they often pick up the full log of 5 points when playing at Loftus.

They’ve been able to structure their seasons into 2-3 stages.

Stage 1 – A few early games, and try not to drop easy points.
Stage 2 – The oveseas tour. Win 2-3 games if possible, but they don’t have to set any records.
Stage 3 – The home leg. Often 5-6 games in a row. It’s been the business end of the season for the Bulls. Make sure they are not to far off the pace, and bank the 30 or so log points from guaranteed home wins, usually with bonus points. It also ensures the Bulls have valuable momentum heading into the business end of the season.

By structuring the season this way, it has ensured the Bulls are mentally fresh. They just have to get through the small 1st and 2nd stages, before launching their critical title campaign in the second half

The schedule for the Bulls this time around won’t allow them an extended run at Loftus, which they enjoy. I’m sure they’ll break it up into the 3 stages as they usually do, but they may have to ensure they win more games travelling around South Africa playing against their fellow countrymen.

Their road trip to Australasia is only 4 weeks, with their last match in Perth. The Hurricanes and Crusaders will be tough, but the Bulls will aim to finish strong against the Reds and Force.

They are also given a good run in the draw by not having to play the Blues and the Brumbies.

I’m predicting things to remain fairly constant in the world of Super Rugby, and by securing top spot, the Bulls can once again be the champions of Super Rugby!

Bulls Super Rugby Draw 2011

The Bulls and Blue Bulls have announced a champion squad for 2011, ready to defend their Super Rugby title by winning the inaugural ‘Super 15′ and bringing the Currie Cup back to Loftus!

It’s a talented, and exciting squad with depth in almost all positions. The 2010 Vodacom Cup and Currie Cup have produced players ready to take the step up to the next level, and become the next generation of Bulls superstars!

Springbok winger Bjorn Basson has been signed from Griquas, whilst a number of junior players graduate from the U21′s and will be playing their first season in the senior side such as: Marnus Schoeman, Cornell Hess and Marnitz Boshoff.

The Bulls squad for 2011:

Props: Gurthro Steenkamp, Dean Greyling, Corne Fourie, Morne Mellett, Werner Kruger, Frik Kirsten, Bees Roux, Rossouw de Klerk

Hookers: Chiliboy Ralepelle, Gary Botha, Henri Bantjes, Zane Botha

Locks: Bakkies Botha, Danie Rossouw, Flip van der Merwe, Berend Botha, Victor Matfield, Juandre Kruger, Fudge Mabeta, Cornell Hess

Loose forwards: Derick Kun, Deon Stegmann, Okkie Kruger, Marnus Schoeman, Vincent Gwavu, Dewald Potgieter, Tendayi Chikukwa, Pierre Spies, Gerrit-Jan van Velze

Scrumhalves: Dustin Jinka, Francois Hougaard, Fourie du Preez, Ruan Snyman

Flyhalves: Morne Steyn, Francois Brummer, Marnitz Boshoff

Centres: Wynand Olivier, Stefan Watermeyer, Jaco Pretorius, Stephan Dippenaar

Wings: Bjorn Basson, John Mametsa, Akona Ndungane, Vainon Willis, Gerhard van den Heever

Fullbacks: Jaco van der Westhuyzen, Zane Kirchner

The 19 Springboks in the group of 47 are: Gurthro Steenkamp, Chiliboy Ralepelle, Gary Botha, Bakkies Botha, Danie Rossouw, Flip van der Merwe, Victor Matfield, Deon Stegmann, Dewald Potgieter, Pierre Spies, Francois Hougaard, Fourie du Preez, Morne Steyn, Wynand Olivier, Bjorn Basson, Akona Ndungane, Jaco van der Westhuyzen and Zane Kirchner

The Blue Bulls have announced their U21 squad for the 2011 season.

Signing include, Leopards point scoring machines Louis Fouche (137 points in the 2010 U21 competition) and Ulrich Beyers (176 points for the victorious Western Province U19′s).

The Blue Bulls U21 side finished second in 2010, losing the final to Western Province. In 2011, they will look to regain the glory at U21 level, and have a strong squad capable of going all the way.

The Blue Bulls U21 squad for 2011:

Props: Juan Schoeman, Juan-Philip Pike, Vincent Koch, LJ van Heerden, Stephanus Pretorius

Hookers: Jacques Momberg, Bongi Mbonambi, Eugene Cunha

Locks: JJ Breet, Gernu Eksteen, Malungisi Bali, Andries Ferreira, José Julies

Loose forwards: Lean Schwartz, Dalton Davis, JP le Grange, Sandile Ngwenya, CJ Stander, Jono Ross, Arno Botha

Scrumhalves: Lohan Jacobs, Arafat Koch

Flyhalves: JC Roos, Louis Fouche (Leopards)

Centres: Francois Venter, Franco Maritz, Adri Jacobs, Johan de Goede, Ernst Dinkelman, Bradley Moolman, Morné Stassen

Wings: Chesane Melane, Courtnall Skosan, Sampie Mastriet, Mauritz Lombaard, Abednego Mamushi, Pieter Oosthuizen, Craig Pheiffer

Fullbacks: Clayton Blommetjies, Ulrich Beyers (WP), Hagen Mumba, Pieter van der Walt, Justin van Staden

The Blue Bulls have announced their junior squad for the 2011 season.

Many of their players are home-grown, but they also have one of the smartest recruitment programs in the world.

At senior level they don’t often buy players because they spot young talent (from all around South Africa), and develop it to it’s potential. One of the Bull’s biggest strengths is keeping their players happy, thus they don’t just

recruit wisely, they retain their players who become part of the unique Bulls family.

For the 2011 season they have also managed to secure the services of William Small-Smith who could well be the most sought after young player in the country.

Small-Smith was head boy of the prestigious Grey College in Bloemfontein who have produced more Springboks than any other school in South Africa (and no doubt Small-Smith will be another).

The talented midfielder captained captained Free State Schools, SA Schools and the SA Rugby U18’s High Performance squad this year.

Whilst he has signed a contract with SA Rugby to play sevens, he will be released to play fifteens when the season starts.

Other notable signings include,SA Schools and Boland flanker Wiaan Liebenberg and SA Schools and Blue Bulls players Nardus van der Walt and Poerie van Rooyen.

The Blue Bulls junior group for 2011:

Props: Hencus van Wyk, Eckert Thomas, Joel Wayne Carew, Du Toit Genis, Christoph Gouws, Nico van Vuuren, Wiehan Hey.

Hookers: Jaco Visagie, Jason Thomas, Marzug Maarman.

Locks: Schalk van Heerden, Herman Groenewald, Marvin Orie.

Loose forwards: Katlego Maake, Wiaan Liebenberg, CJ van der Schyff, Cloete Wessels, Nardus van der Walt, Malherbe van Wyk, Shaun Adendorf, James Marx, Lourens Erasmus.

Scrumhalves: Jacques Olivier, Poerie van Rooyen.

Flyhalves: Tony Jantjies, Zandré van der Linde.

Centres: Danie Ludick, Andile Jho, Christopher Bosch, William Small-Smith, Damion van Wyk, Christiaan Rust.

Wings: Richard-Dean Gorrah.

Fullbacks: Marinus van der Merwe, Jacques Botha.

The SA Schools/SA High Performance players are: Jason Thomas, Schalk van Heerden, Wiaan Liebenberg, Nardus van der Walt, Poerie van Rooyen, Tony Jantjies, Andile Jho, William Small-Smith, Marinus van der Merwe

Former Springbok lock Ernst Dinkelmann (83) passed away early on Friday morning.

Dinkelmann died of a stroke in the Nelspruit Medi-Clinic, having recently suffered ill health.

He was a versatile player, with the ability to play flank, lock and eighthman.

He was best known for being part of the 1951-52 Springbok tour of Britain and Dinkelmann, 83, played six Tests for the Springboks, and wore the national colours on 21 occasions between 1951 and 1953.

He also played for Northern Transvaal 49 times, captaining his province in 5 matches.

After his playing days, Dinkelmann coached and served as a selector in Pretoria. He also used his skills as a medical practitioner to good use also.

Dinkelmann was one of the founders of pre-primary school rugby (Bulletjies Rugby) aimed at encouraging young players to play. He also wrote and taught many coaching guidelines which are still in use today.

His son, Rolan Dinkelmann said, “My father loved rugby so much he was on the field practically every day and he was probably the best role model a young man could ask for.”

May he rest in peace, and may his influence continue to help Blue Bulls and Springbok rugby.

After superb performances in 2009 and early 2010, both the Bulls and the Boks have suffered in recent times. Similarly they share the same dilemmas.

In September 2009 the Springboks looked unbeatable.

After a 3rd Super 14 title in 4 years, the Bulls could rightly lay claim to being the best provincial side on the planet.

However the Springboks 2010 international season was a disaster, and the 2010 Blue Bulls Currie Cup campaign was a fizzer.

With the Bulls contributing so many Springboks, is it any co-incidence, both sides are struggling?

FATIGUE?

Both sides have gone off the boil, showing only glimpses of their brilliance, whilst stacked with talented individuals across the field.

Many may point to the Fourie du Preez factor being the problem, but I believe it goes deeper than just the champion scrumhalf’s absence as the forward pack is central to the root of the problem.

I believe a large factor is fatigue and staleness.

Victor Matfield, Danie Rossouw, Pierre Spies, Morne Steyn are such key figures in any side, and form a massive part of the axis around which these sides operate.

None are operating near their potential and are desperately in need of time away from the game.

Any rugby crtitic or coach will tell you the game is won or lost up front. Both the Bulls and Boks have been smashed in their forward efforts.

The lineout has been ineffectual (and even worse neither side has played to their strength and forced lineouts whilst their opposition have largely minimised this facet of play). The scrums unable to dominate, and the collective effort of the tight fives where matches have been lost.

Gone is the hard edge, the abrasiveness and possibly most importantly the mental intimidation effect.

It’s nullified the loose forwards, and players such as Pierre Spies, Dewald Potgieter, Derick Kuun, Schalk Burger and Francois Louw have been largely anonymous, reduced to tackling most of the game.

It’s energy sapping stuff, and the scrumhalf and flyhalf have been unable to bring the loosies into the game to get momentum over the advantage line. In fact even players such as Spies have been going backwards with ball in hand in recent games.

The Bulls and Bok backlines have also suffered, but much of that comes from back foot ball and being unable to halt the momentum of the opposition once they are going forward.

Both these sides like to dominate early, and build a lead. As in the Currie Cup semi-final, these sides have struggled to get their game going early, and been behind the eight ball for most of the season.

THE ABILITY TO BOUNCE BACK

2008 however was a bad year for the Bulls as the loss of some key players and an inability to adapt saw the Bulls slide terribly. In Peter de Villiers’ first year in charge, the Boks did not perform much better.

Both bounced back massively in 2009.

Let’s hope 2011 sees a similar scenario. I am sure the Bulls will show their strengths in the 2011 Super Rugby competition as they have invested in their youth during 2010 which will bring about its rewards at a later stage, and the Bulls brains trust are intelligent enough to learn from their mistakes.

The Springboks I am not so confident about. The coaching staff have possibly been a factor in the problem, not giving players rest when it could have been afforded, and not playing to their strengths.

However if the Bulls bring back their confidence, it should transform in to a better Bok side, coach or no coach!

After suffering a 16-12 defeat at the hands of the Sharks in the 2010 Currie Cup semi-final, are the Bulls on a downward spiral?

2010 started off as a great year for the Bulls union. Few will argue they were the dominant side in the 2010 Super 14, and deserved winners of their third title in 4 years.

The depth at the Pretoria based union was evident as the Blue Bulls took the Vodacom Cup title as well, having been finalists the previous year.

A downside of the success at the Bulls is that the Currie Cup campaign would have to be mostly undertaken without the large number of their Springbok players, but still the expectation was that the Bulls would be in the title hunt.

Whilst their have been many achievements, great moments and encouraging performances for the future, the Blue Bulls were largely disappointing for much of their Currie Cup campaign.

The loss to the Pumas in Nelspruit was possibly the biggest disappointment of the season, but coming on the eve of Bees Roux’s arrest, were the Bulls distracted as their performance was out of character?

Several youngsters have put their hands up such as Gerrit-Jan van Velze , whilst others such as Jacques-Louis Potgieter have failed to deliver.

Whilst all Bulls supporters will be lamenting the loss of the Currie Cup, and the inability to become the first side to hold the Super Rugby title, the Vodacom Cup and Currie Cup in the same calender year, the real benefits of the 2010 Currie Cup may only be felt in the 2011 Super 15.

I am sure the Bulls have learnt much this year, and at their annual pre-season training camp in George, the brains trust will have much to ponder and work on. If there is any union who will heed the lessons and come back even stronger it is the Bulls!

Griquas and Springbok winger Bjorn Basson has signed for the Bulls, joining them on the 1st November.

Griquas and the Cheetahs have allowed the winger a release a year early on his contract, a move that financially rewards the union with a transfer fee, even though they are sad to see such a talented player depart.

Griquas CEO Arni van Rooyen said, “Bjorn has signed his contract and is a Blue Bulls as from 1 November. Bjorn is a very good player and the Bulls were very professional in the manner that they approached us to negotiate with him. We don’t want to lose him but rugby is a business and the decision was the best for all parties concerned. He is one of the best finishers in the country.”

The Bulls had been looking to bolster their wing resources, especially given Akona Ndungane’s recent horror run with injuries. Ndungane’s contrct expires at the end of this season, and it will be intersting to see if his contract is renewed.

The Cheetahs Lionel Mapoe was also considered, as was Sharks wing JP Pietersen, but his asking price is believed to have been 3 times that of Basson.

The Bulls will now regain the pace they’ve been lacking since Bryan Habana’s departure. Basson is a real speedster with great aerial ball skills which will help with the Bulls kick chase tactics.

It compliments Gerhard van den Heever on the right wing who is a more creative and skillful winger.

I look forward to Basson excelling in Bulls colours, as he has the pace, skill and attitude to be a huge success. Ironically I actually believe he will ease the pressure and allow van den Heever to shine next year as well.

It will be a joy to watch the Bulls wings scoring tries again which have been sadly lacking in recent weeks in this year’s Currie Cup!

Springbok eighth-man Pierre Spies will stay a Bull as he has extended his contract with the Bulls Rugby Union until October 2012.

The 25 year old said it was an easy decision to stay with the Bulls at Loftus despite receiving numerous offers from elsewhere in the country and abroad.

Spies who was born and bred in Pretoria, has represented the Blue Bulls since his primary school days.

“I have received numerous offers from abroad and other local unions, but it was quite easy to make this call” said Spies.

“The quality of the players around me, the fantastic management structures and the achievements we have recorded all contributed to my decision. It is very important in life to set high goals and this team does just that. I also came through the structures and want to remain part of it for a while longer”

“Now I can focus without any worries on doing what I am getting paid to do and play rugby to the best of my abilities” Spies concluded.

Just how much this decision has been weighing on the 37 test veterans mind is anybodys guess, but he has not been on his best form since the Super 14 concluded.

ENGELS TO JOIN KINGS

The signing of Spies comes just days after prop Jaco Engels announced he has signed with the Kings commencing at the end of this season.

His value to the Bulls was highlighted even as recently as the match against the Sharks where he scored a superb individual try. Engels has played over 50 times for the Blue Bulls in the Currie Cup and 40 times in super rugby.

The Namibian born 30 year old front ranker has signed for the Eastern Cape franchise for the next two years, having played for the Southern Kings against the British and Irish Lions in 2009.

“They are trying to build something special and I would like to contribute. I will always treasure my time with the Bulls, but I respect their structures and realise it is time for the next generation to come through the ranks. I still have something to offer though and will be proud to add value to the Kings” said Engels.

BULLS COACH HAPPY

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke was understandably happy to retain the services of his outstanding loose forward, Spies.

“It is a huge honour for a union if someone of Pierre’s stature and talent finds himself comfortable in their environment and structures. He is a world class player and also adds a massive amount off the field. We are very happy to retain his services” said Ludeke.

Of Engels, Ludeke wished him well for his future career.

“He will remain an important member of our squad for the rest of the season and I don’t have any doubt about his commitment to our cause. We understand why he is moving on and wish him well” said Ludeke.