Running the rule over the Vodacom Bulls, veteran Cornal Hendricks expects a more clinical performance from the Herd against the Pumas in Nelspruit on Friday.
The Bulls face the Mpumalanga outfit in round 7 of the Currie Cup at Mbombela Stadium. Phiwe Nomlomo’s charges remained unbeaten with an emphatic victory against the Griffons last week, while the Lions thrashed the Pumas in Johannesburg.
Log leaders, the Bulls romped to a 55-21 win at Loftus Versfeld, scoring nine tries. They dominated proceedings and held a comfortable 24-7 advantage at half time.
Their Welkom opponents managed three converted touchdowns and speaking in a Bulls conference on Tuesday, Hendricks emphasised the importance of not allowing the Pumas any opportunities to punish them this week.
“We try every week to deliver the best performance we can, and there were definitely a few tries left out on the field [against the Griffons]. We were a little impatient, especially in the 22,” he told reporters.
“With all due respect, when it comes to playing teams like the Griffons we must ensure the game remains structured because at the end of the day, that’s not what they want.
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“They want the game to be loose and utilise their brilliant individual players and steppers.
“The Pumas are a good team and never easy to play at home so there’s definitely parts of our game we need to work on and rectify against the Griffons this week.
“We’re looking forward to the game and making as few mistakes as possible because if we do, the Pumas will punish us.”
Hendricks, who plays wing and centre, has featured prominently in the 2024 Currie Cup after making just three appearances across the Vodacom URC and Champions Cup in 2023-24.
The 36-year-old Springbok co-captained the Bulls last week, and is relishing his current role in midfield with fellow seasoned campaigner Lionel Mapoe.
“We are more on the senior side but it’s always great for Lionel and I to be playing with the young talent that is coming through,” Hendricks said.
“We’ll keep doing it as long as we can and get the privilege to run out onto the field to show what we’re capable of.
“It’s not always easy because the youngsters are pushing hard, but it’s great to mix it with the next generation and provide competition for them.”
Photo: Marnus Prinsloo/Gallo Images
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