Jake White is pleased with the Vodacom Bulls’ bonus-point winning tour opener in Wales on Saturday, but will be without several key players against the Scarlets next week.
The Bulls clinched a 29-19 victory over the Ospreys in Swansea, despite playing much of the second half one man down and twice being reduced to 13 men.
The Herd stormed to a 26-5 half-time lead. However, the match took a dramatic turn after the break when inside centre David Kriel was shown a red card for what the ref deemed to be a “dangerous” fend.
Speaking post-match from Swansea, White acknowledged the impact of the red card: “It was obviously a massive effect on the game, because it was our ball, and we were carrying it into contact, and suddenly we were 14 men.”
Despite the setback, the Bulls showed tremendous resolve. “Credit to the players because the last 10 minutes, as good as the first half was, those last 10 minutes of defence with 13 players was outstanding,” said White.
He also highlighted the contribution of veteran fullback Willie le Roux, who was named Man of the Match. “Having his brain and expertise at the back, a bit older and wiser, was exactly what we needed on the field.”
The Bulls’ victory came at a cost, with Kriel’s red card and failed HIAs for Louw and fellow Springbok Gerhard Steenekamp raising concerns for the remainder of their European tour.
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“Firstly, we’re going to have a look at it [Kriel’s dismissal] and see what channels we can go through to see what the outcome is,” said White, who emphasised the importance of squad depth.
“We’re no different from other teams who have injuries or losing international players. Over a period of 21 games in this competition, you’re going to have to have contingency plans.”
White confirmed that Louw and Steenekamp would be unavailable to face the Scarlets. “Failing an HIA doesn’t mean you’re out for six weeks, it might be 12 days. If it’s 12 days, they’ll be available for Springbok duty,” he said.
“What I do know is it’s a given that neither of them will be able to play next week.”
He also confirmed that seasoned playmaker Devon Williams is scheduled to join the squad after recovering from injury.
Looking ahead to the Bulls’ clash on Friday, White explained: “Any away win is a bonus, so to get away with beating the Ospreys who beat the DHL Stormers a couple of weeks ago… mission accomplished in terms of game one, five points.
“We’re not taking anything for granted against Scarlets… we’re under no false illusions that next week won’t be as tough as this week.”
Photo: Chris Fairweather/Gallo Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
