Vodacom Bulls coach Johan Ackermann believes Saturday’s URC semi-final against the Glasgow Warriors will be decided by the finest of margins.
The Bulls travel to Murrayfield to face the URC table-toppers, looking to avenge two defeats at Scotstoun earlier this season, while defending champions Leinster host the Stormers in Dublin.
“I think the intensity of both semi-finals will be close to Test-match level,” Ackermann told the media from Scotland.
“We couldn’t have set the scene better than playing at a Test stadium as well, so that’s a nice challenge and great privilege.
“It’s going to be a game of inches and small pieces of momentum, but important for us is to not put extra pressure on ourselves.”
TEAM: Bulls welcome back Wilco for semi-final
The Bulls have made three changes to their bench for the clash. Springbok tighthead prop Wilco Louw returns after recovering from bronchitis, scrumhalf Zak Burger replaces the injured Paul de Wet, while No 8 Nizaam Carr takes the place of injured wing Sergeal Petersen.
Despite Louw’s return, Ackermann has retained Francois Klopper in the starting XV after an impressive display in last week’s quarter-final win over Munster.
“Kloppies’ selection was simply to keep some momentum and to reward him for some good form,” said Ackermann. “But someone with the experience of Wilco can come on and do a job for us in the second half.”
MORE: 150 up for Grobbies as Bulls eye Glasgow upset
Ackermann has dismissed any suggestion that previous playoff results will influence Saturday’s contest.
“I don’t think one can go back in history and see what you’ve done wrong,” he said. “There aren’t any bonus points on the table, so we just need to win.
“It’ll be the team who handles the pressure the best. Glasgow have shown through the season why they’re No 1 in the tournament. We have to go to their ‘home ground’ and beat them there, which is a challenge we’re really looking forward to.”
With a place in the URC final at stake, Ackermann expects his senior players to lead the way.
“Playoff games are all about what happens on the day. You need your best and experienced players to fire.”
Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images
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Vodacom Bulls coach Johan Ackermann believes Saturday’s URC semi-final against the Glasgow Warriors will be decided by the finest of margins.
The post Ackers: Semi-finals will be close to Test level appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
