Bulls can’t afford to play catch-up
MARAIS: WAITING UNTIL LAST MINUTE HURT US BEFORE
Strauss aware they have to match the Cheetahs up front.
Bulls coach Nollis Marais said it was vital his side did not have to chase the game in their Super Rugby derby against the Cheetahs in Pretoria today, as the Bulls look to continue their unbeaten run at Loftus Versfeld this season.
The Bulls were swept off their feet in the opening half-hour of their match against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein at the beginning of March, but are currently one point ahead of the central franchise in their conference.
“We can’t be behind 28-11 again. They put our set-pieces under pressure that day, and made the game quite quick with front-foot ball. We almost clawed it back at the end, only losing 34-28, but we can’t wait till the last minute this time,” Marais said.
The Bulls’ lineout was particularly dysfunctional in Bloemfontein, but the inconsistent scrum will also be a focal point, with Trevor Nyakane being rested as per the Springbok agreement and Jacobie Adriaanse making his first start at tighthead prop. Powerful scrummager Charles Marais will be up against him, with the strong Ox Nche on the bench.
Bulls captain Adriaan Strauss said it was as mundane as ensuring they win the gain-line battle against the Cheetahs if they are going to go into their bye week on Monday with their confidence and enthusiasm still growing.
“It’s a very important game and it’s good to be at home. The Cheetahs provide a different threat, they have good set-pieces and they can run from anywhere. Our defence will have to be up there, but the game is still about momentum and protecting our gain-line.
“Whether we’re in the 15m lines or closer to the ruck, we have to match them up front,” Strauss said.