Bulls' Currie Cup campaign to reap rewards amid URC stars' absence

REACTION: The Bulls’ Currie Cup team might be able to find their rhythm in absence of all the franchise’s United Rugby Champions stars.

The Bulls side headed to Bloemfontein with a very understrength team, as a result of all the senior players having been selected for the URC and Champions Cup matches in Europe.

It was a real test for Edgar Marutlulle’s troops, who went down 7-32 to the Cheetahs in the Round Three clash this past Friday.

The defeat leaves the Bulls seventh on the Currie Cup standings, with only one point.

However, despite the three-match losing streak, Marutlulle explained he has already seen a major improvement in the side, especially in the absence of their URC stars.

“I think particularly with this group which was separated from the URC team, we are seeing growth from where we were three weeks ago,” the 35-year-old said after Friday’s match.

“We can only get better from here.”

He added: “We were really outstanding defensively in the first half and the effort was exceptional.”

The coach praised the Cheetahs for their win.

“The Cheetahs were really well-organised and they have taught us a lesson on how to maul as well.”

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Bulls captain Lizo Gqoboka echoed his coach’s sentiments.

“The Cheetahs have a good set piece so we had to work hard at the scrums and mauls,” Gqoboka said after the match.

“At times we were good at stopping their mauls but I do think we can build on this.

“We have a base to work on and all you can do is learn from this, so we can get better for upcoming games.

“The nice thing about rugby is that next week you get another opportunity.”

The Bulls have a chance to record their first win next week when they face Griffons in Round four on Friday.

@rugby365com