Kings will be fired up, says Bulls coach
Marais says they are expecting classic derby
Bulls coach Nollis Marais says the uncertain future of the Southern Kings in Super Rugby means they will be going all out to prove a point when they meet at Loftus tomorrow.
SA Rugby will today decide which two of the country’s teams will be dropped from the competition next season, with the Kings and the Cheetahs the likely candidates.
“The fact that they may not be playing Super Rugby next season makes them dangerous because they will be looking to prove a point against us‚” said Marais‚ after announcing the Bulls squad for the clash at Loftus.
“Most of them probably know what is going to happen on Friday when the announcement is made, but they will come here motivated regardless of what is going to happen.”
Kings‚ who have won five of their 13 matches so far this season‚ are still fresh from their vital away victory over the Jaguares last weekend and Marais expects a “classic” South African derby.
“They will be up for the game because they have been good all season long and we have to be on top of our game‚” Marais said.
“The only team that gave them a hiding this season was the Lions and they are a good team.
“They [the Kings] have played good rugby all season‚ they have travelled well and they are playing well together as a team,” he said.
“They will be up for the game and they have been good all season long.”
Bulls captain Adriaan Strauss said they were playing for pride in their remaining two matches against the Kings and the Stormers next week because their hopes of featuring in the knockout stages have been extinguished.
“Pride is at stake for us‚” said Strauss, adding that their win over the Sharks last weekend was a good morale booster.