Coach: Problems all in our minds

MITCHELL: WE MUST REMEMBER WE ARE IN TRANSITION

Nine changes for shell-shocked Bulls against Griquas.

John Mitchell came to Loftus Versfeld three months ago saying there was a very talented group of players at the union and they just needed a mindset change, and he was delivering the same message this week as the Blue Bulls try to avoid another humiliation against Griquas in their Currie Cup match in Pretoria tonight.

Last weekend, with Mitchell handling the Currie Cup team for the first time, the Bulls suffered an ignominious 51-15 loss at the hands of the Pumas in Nelspruit, a thrashing that has probably left major scars. Little wonder then that the former All Black coach has made nine changes.

“Our problems are all mental, we just have to address that. It’s as simple as that. But we have to remember we’re in transition and one can’t be a miracle worker in terms of changing bad habits within seven days. But in time we’ll get there,” Mitchell said.

Griquas are sure to bring a similar approach to Loftus as the Pumas successfully employed – an abrasive, hard-edged and experienced pack and enthusiastic attacking backs, and whether a youthful Bulls side has the forward grunt to quell their desire for a first win against their hosts in five years or the defensive stability to stop leaking tries remains to be seen.

They cannot afford the ill-discipline that has led to cards in most of their matches this season.

Mitchell seems to want to get into the heads of his players, but he surely needs to first tighten up on the basic skills that have been so lacking in the Blue Bulls’ plunge into sixth place, one point behind Griquas.