Boks built on Bulls power
2006-08-25 22:21
Pretoria - A double dose of Blue Bulls medicine - Loftus Versfeld and the six Bulls in the starting line-up - may just be the spark the Springboks need to get going in the Tri-Nations series on Saturday afternoon.
There are now six Bulls in the starting line-up against the All Blacks following the withdrawal of flanker Joe van Niekerk.
There are also three Bulls on the reserve bench.
Pierre Spies, 21, who replaces Van Niekerk, was only moved to the bench after Juan Smith's injury during training on Wednesday.
Van Niekerk complained of neck pain on Thursday evening and an X-ray on Friday showed cartilage damage in his neck.
It is possible that he may also be forced to miss the Test against the All Blacks in Rustenburg next weekend.
The Bok selectors initially had a choice between Spies, Pedrie Wannenburg, one of three Bulls on the bench, and even Albert van den Berg.
Even though the Boks do not have a sparkling record against the All Blacks at Loftus, the Kiwi captain, Richie McCaw, said all South African stadiums were equally intimidating for visiting teams.
"We felt very alone at times at Newlands last year, especially since it's so difficult to catch up once the Boks have taken the lead," said McCaw.
The disruption facing the Bok loose trio could make the tussle at the breakdown points even livelier, especially because the All Blacks have two 'fetchers' in McCaw and Chris Masoe.
McCaw emphasised the importance of quick possession, as the All Blacks are likely to use their quick-silver backs to run circles around the Boks.
"The last time we played at Loftus (in 2003), the Boks pinned as back during the first 20 minutes before our backline could start to dominate. Our backs relish opportunities to play running rugby. That's why the backs are really looking forward to this Test, because it's being played in the afternoon and on a dry field."
The Kiwis showed the confidence they have in their attacking ability against the Wallabies last weekend by even throwing the ball around in their own 22m area.