Vodacom Bulls coach Johan Ackermann is expecting contestable kicks to play a decisive role in Friday night’s Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against Edinburgh at Hive Stadium.
The Bulls, buoyed by a confidence-boosting Champions Cup victory over Pau that ended a seven-match losing streak, now turn their attention back to the URC. Sitting 11th on the table, just below their Scottish hosts, the Pretoria-based side face a stern test in challenging conditions.
“We were pleased with the victory against PAU and qualifying, but we have achieved nothing yet,” Ackermann said.
“There are still a few things we can improve on. But the grind was there, the character. If we can just cut down on the mistakes of the last few games, we can pull a few more results through, even if it means winning ugly.”
Ackermann highlighted Edinburgh’s formidable kicking game as a major threat.
“They are one of the teams that kick the most, and they are very good in the air. We have faith that the backs can do the job. Our forwards will be challenged at the set-piece, because there will probably be a fair bit of mauling.”
“It’s been wet, there’s expected wind, and obviously it’s going to be cold. That means we have to win the aerial battle. If you concede penalties, they’ll kick to the corner, and you’ll struggle to get out. Then you’re defending for long periods.”
Ackermann has made several changes to his forwards, bringing in hooker Johan Grobbelaar for the injured Akker van der Merwe, Wilco Louw at tighthead prop, Ruan Nortje in the second row, and the in-form Jeandre Rudolph at No 8. Nortje and Rudolph impressed off the bench against Pau and are rewarded with starting berths.
“We know how physical this game is going to be. It’s going to be a ground battle, a lot of collisions, and a lot of kicking. Jeandre is in form, and we want him to make carries and tackles from the first minute.”
“We’re fortunate to have players who can start or come off the bench and still make an impact. Nizaam Carr brings experience and leadership off the bench, and that gives us options later in the game.”
Unlike last weekend, Ackermann has opted against a 6-2 split on the bench, seeking more backline cover due to the anticipated aerial contest: “Because of the aerial game and the amount of work at the back, we wanted more balance. The forwards have a big night ahead of them, but we believe they can do the job.”