VIDEO: Bulls were always focused on the Final
VIDEO: Bulls and Springbok flank Marco van Staden says the Final this weekend is what the Bulls have been working on from the start.
The 28-year-old Van Staden, who made his return from a knee injury last week in the semifinal against Leinster, talked to reporters during a media briefing on Thursday about the build-up to the Final, the nerves, plans, and how he felt getting back.
“We didn’t go into the Leinster game thinking we were the underdogs. Our focus was we wanted to get into the final,” Van Staden said emphatically.
“Being the underdog last week – we were not motivated by taking the favourite out.
“Our focus from the start was getting into the final.”
Van Staden proved to be a vital cog in the Boks set-up during the World Cup in France last year, featuring as flank and hooker during the winning campaign.
He has an immense physical presence and a rounded skillset that goes beyond his main role as flank.
His vast experience includes a solid knowledge of European teams.
“Glasgow has a very good attacking team, we can’t take anything for granted. Would like to be prepared for everything.
“Every team every week is different. The main thing is to focus on our things and what we can control.
“We can’t control what they are going to bring and how they will play on the day.
“We had a lot of soft moments in a short amount of time. Just to keep the focus up for 80 min – I think we stopped playing at one stage in that game. We have to keep going for the full game.
“I think if we give Glasgow soft moments, they will take it and you will pay the price,” the flank commented.
So what message has gone out to the team this week, especially from the more experienced players in the Bulls squad?
“We suspect it is going to be a full Loftus. Just to stay calm, do the things we do, and focus on ourselves.
“Because there is a reason why we are in this privileged position.
“It’s a massive occasion.
“It’s a privilege to have that pressure. You are hosting a Final at your home ground, you can’t ask for more than that.”
Here’s how our Grand Finalists have shaped up this season 💪
This clash is going to be EPIC!#BKTURC #URC | #BULvGLA #GrandFinal pic.twitter.com/iftsIhqJQ9
— BKT United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial) June 20, 2024
