Vodacom Bulls hooker Johan Grobbelaar believes the Vodacom Bulls are peaking at the right time ahead of their high-stakes United Rugby Championship (URC) semi-final clash against the Glasgow Warriors on Saturday at 15:30 (SA Time).
Speaking ahead of the upcoming match at Murrayfield Stadium, Grobbelaar shared key insights on the challenge ahead and the significance of the venue.
Following a dominant 45-14 quarter-final victory over Munster, Grobbelaar noted that while the team was not at its best early in the season, they are now "building nicely" when it matters most.
“We are peaking at the right time, when it really matters,” said Grobbelaar. “We were not at our best at the start of the season, but over the last few matches, even though we have been far from perfect, we are building nicely.
“Munster was a good performance, and hopefully we can continue that on Saturday.”
The match offers a shot at redemption after the Bulls lost to Glasgow in the 2023/24 URC final. Grobbelaar acknowledged that the loss is "at the back of your mind," but emphasised that the focus is purely on the massive opportunity ahead.
“Losing that final is probably still there in the back of your mind,” Grobbelaar admitted. “But we’ve put that behind us. This is a wonderful opportunity at an iconic stadium, and we’re looking forward to it.”
“Glasgow are probably one of the most well-balanced teams in the competition,” Grobbelaar said on Tuesday ahead of the Bulls’ departure to Edinburgh. “There aren’t many weaknesses you can target, so you have to be on top of your game.
“It comes down to the basics,” added the 28-year-old, who is set to make his 150th appearance for the Bulls. “We need a dominant set-piece, create momentum and be clinical.
“In semi-final rugby, when you get into the 22, you have to take your opportunities and put points on the board.”