Brits identifies biggest weapon for Vodacom Bulls

Schalk Brits. Openfield

Schalk Brits watched the Vodacom Bulls deliver what he feels was their most complete performance in demolishing Munster in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship quarter-finals. But he believes that for the upcoming semi-final against the Glasgow Warriors, this team has another even greater weapon in their arsenal.

“When you bring strong principles and values into a team, it’s very hard to play against that. I think this team has mastered the fact that rugby doesn’t define them. It’s an important part of their lives, but not everything,” says Brits.

“If you consider where they were in January, then Johan Ackermann taking over and a lot of reshuffling, they are hitting their straps at the best time of the season. The dominance from the Vodacom Bulls in the quarter-final was real. It was the best performance this season from this team.”

Brits also had particular praise for Embrose Papier, who has already cemented his status as one of the greatest to ever wear the No 9 jersey at the Bulls.

“Embrose has always been an extremely hard worker and true professional. Much like the great Vodacom Bulls scrumhalves of Fourie du Preez and Joost van der Westhuizen, they just got better with time. He’s been absolutely phenomenal this season. He clears quickly, his support play is excellent, and his defence has been spectacular.”

The fact that the Bulls will be playing this semi-final on the real grass of Murrayfield and not artificial grass is a perfect metaphor for Johan Ackermann’s team. Since taking over at Loftus Versfeld, Ackermann has focused his attention on cementing the real values in this team. Exactly the values Brits believes makes them a dangerous play-off opponent.

Saturday

SF1: (1) Glasgow Warriors v (4) Vodacom Bulls @ Scottish Gas Murrayfield, Edinburgh (2.30pm UK/ 3.30pm SA)

Referee: Andrew Brace (IRFU, 117th league game)

AR 1: Eoghan Cross (IRFU) AR 2: Robbie Jenkinson (IRFU)

TMO: Olly Hodges (IRFU)

Live on Premier Sports, SuperSport, URC.tv, FloRugby