Leinster coach Leo Cullen says reaching another Vodacom URC final is a testament to his squad’s resilience after a difficult start to the season.
The Irish giants will host the Bulls at Croke Park on Friday night, looking to defend the title they won with a 32-7 victory over the Pretoria-based outfit in last season’s final.
On Wednesday, Cullen reflected on Leinster’s journey to the showpiece after losing three of their opening four URC matches.
“I think it’s an amazing competition, and it’s an unbelievable privilege to be here at this stage of the competition, at a final,” he said.
“If you’d asked me when we were sitting here last, after round four, when we lost three of our first four games, would we be in the situation we’re in, playing in a final in Croke Park? I think everyone would have thought we were crazy at that point.
“It’s been an amazing squad effort, I think, to get to this stage.”
TEAM: Furlong returns for Leinster, Porter ruled out
Leinster will tackle the Bulls without Ireland loosehead prop Andrew Porter, who has been ruled out with a calf injury.
His absence means Jerry Cahir will start, while 20-year-old Alex Usanov is set to provide cover off the bench against a powerful Bulls scrum featuring Springbok Wilco Louw.
Cullen, however, has no doubts about his young front rowers.
“Andrew has missed a big chunk of the season already so guys have plenty of exposure throughout the season,” he said.
“We would always have huge faith in the group that we have. It’s one guy down, next guy up. I don’t try to get too bogged down by that.”
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS: Five battles that will decide URC final
Cullen reserved special praise for Cahir.
“To see his progression through the season has been amazing,” he said. “It’s a great story of persistence, perseverance, isn’t it?
“He was back playing club rugby, battling it out in the AIL [All-Ireland League] with a few different teams.
“To see him progress with us through the course of the season, he’s had some huge moments for us, some huge games.”
Cullen backed both Cahir and Usanov to rise to the occasion.
“I don’t think anyone thinks they’re going to let the team down on Friday, because they’re bloody great characters.”
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS: Five battles that will decide URC final
The Leinster coach expects another stern examination from the Bulls.
“We know it’s going to be a serious challenge, because we’re up against a serious team,” he said.
“We want to be really respectful to the opposition, but we also need to be very focused on ourselves and what makes Leinster great.”
Photo: Leinster Rugby
The post Cullen hails Leinster’s final push appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Leinster coach Leo Cullen says reaching another Vodacom URC final is a testament to his squad’s resilience after a difficult start to the season.
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