The Bulls’ forward power surge has come at the perfect time for the Springboks’ Test season, writes MARK KEOHANE.
Writing for the Sunday Times, Keohane says the Pretoria-based side’s recent form is a reminder that the Bok pack will begin their Test campaign against England on 4 July with momentum, cohesion and confidence.
The demolition of the Dragons in Newport was built on patience and power. After being level late in the first half, the Bulls broke the game through sustained pressure and clinical execution.
“The last quarter scoring breakout resulted from 60 minutes of intense forward pressure, physical domination in the collisions and absolute patience from the visitors,” Keohane writes.
Gerhard Steenekamp, Johan Grobbelaar and Ruan Nortjé anchored the performance, continuing a trend that has seen the Bulls tighten defensively after early-season vulnerability.
Keohane notes the shift in identity under coach Johann Ackermann.
“The Bulls’ blueprint is taking shape and his squad is starting to reflect his personality in character and professionalism.”
The resurgence has taken the Bulls from a seven-match losing streak to six wins in eight, pushing them into contention for a top-four URC finish and a home quarter-final.
More importantly, it strengthens the Springboks’ core ahead of the England clash, with several Bulls forwards expected to feature prominently in the national pack.
For Keohane, the message is clear: when the Bulls’ big men find form, the Springboks benefit.
Photo: Kian Abdullah/Gallo Images
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