Hendricks: How Bulls can end Stormers' stranglehold
DERBY SPOTLIGHT: Stormers’ recent dominance over their nemesis the Bulls has added some much-needed excitement to the North-South derby.
The Stormers and Bulls’ rivalry has been well-documented over the years, with the team from Pretoria enjoying great success in the Super Rugby – winning the then Super 14 on three occasions (2007, 2008 and 2010).
However, since the introduction of the United Rugby Championship in 2021 the Bulls have been left in the wake of the Cape Town franchise.
John Dobson’s men have beaten the Bulls on four occasions, including the inaugural URC Final, while the Bulls have yet to record a win over their arch-rivals.
“I would not call it a [mental] stronghold,” Bulls wing Cornal Hendricks told reporters when asked about his team’s winless URC record against the Stormers.
“But we can’t deny the fact that the Stormers is a very good team and in the last two years they have developed into an incredible side.
“So yes I have to give credit to them.
“This week we are working hard to deliver our best and the rivalry between the two teams always ensures a good game.
“We hope to use our home ground advantage and it is always special playing at Loftus Versfeld.”
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Hendricks admitted the Round 14 fixture is going to be a huge challenge but is confident his team’s plans can get the better of the visitors, who are missing some key players due to the mandatory Springboks resting period.
“We know that the Stormers are playing good rugby at the moment, but obviously I’m backing my team [the Bulls] to win it this weekend.
“We have a few good plans and I’m positive we will deliver some good rugby.”
Without revealing too much, Hendricks explained: “We need to win the physical battle in front.
“I think if you can not win the forward battle, it’s going to be a very long day and I know it is going to be a big challenge.
“Furthermore Manie Libbok is playing good rugby and is their attacking captain. He manages to steer the attack in the right direction, so we have to keep an eye on him.
“And their backline is on fire [which is another threat], while our discipline is another key area we need to focus on.
“But We have a solid team and we certainly look forward to the contest.”
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