Ackermann axed coach in bid to return to his roots
REACTION: Bulls coach Johan Ackermann has clarified why he axed his Bulls assistant coaches a fortnight ago, following their shock defeat to the Sharks.
Lineout coach Andries Bekker and backline coach Chris Rossouw have been dismissed with immediate effect following the team’s struggles in the United Rugby Championship and Champions Cup.
When head coach Johan Ackermann took over, he opted to keep the management team of the Bulls as is without bringing in his preferred assistants.
Since the former Lions and Gloucester coach has joined the Bulls, they have gone on a five-match losing streak, and the powers that be, in tandem with Ackermann, have decided enough is enough and that it is time to take action.
The axe came down on the two assistants.
Since then, he has appointed Neil de Bruin as the new attack coach.
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On Friday, Ackermann spoke candidly about the sacking and explained why he felt it necessary to take such drastic measures.
“Obviously, it wasn’t an easy decision because I believe people have to be able to work together,” he said, adding, “But then again, rugby is a funny game. Sometimes you just feel like you connect with someone a bit more than with somebody else.
“So that was it.
“And then obviously it was a decision from my side. Andries Bekker has done a great job, but it’s the first time ever I have had a forwards coach, and it was tough for me not to get my hands in the dirt.
“Although you reflect together as coaches afterward, you are not delivering the message yourself. So I just wanted to go back to my old roots, where I coach daily, and be involved with the facet of the game.
“That was a difficult one because we’ve enjoyed each other, and it’s great to have somebody to bounce ideas off of.
“It’s done now.
“And I want to thank them for what they have done for Bulls rugby over many years.
“It’s still early days. Neil will have to settle in with the team. He has only been with the team for a week and has had only three days with them.
“Luckily, I know Neil well, and I know what to expect from him.”
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