The Vodacom Bulls XV wanted a tough workout and that’s exactly what they got against a feisty Sanlam Boland Cavaliers team in Wellington early on Friday evening.
Amid a searing Western Cape summer’s day, the visitors huffed and puffed their way to an untidy 31-24 win.
Boland were pumped up from the start, matching the Vodacom Bulls in the tight-loose and keeping a close watch on the outside backs, who were given little space.
Scrumhalf Embrose Papier had a sublime first 40 minutes before being replaced by Zak Burger, the Vodacom Bulls using the opportunity to mix and match against formidable opponents.
Papier scored early on, but Boland hit back with two tries in the first of three first-half “chukkas”.
Coach Johan Ackermann won’t likely be too concerned by the tepid early showing, with self-preservation clearly top of mind among the players ahead of next week’s all-important Vodacom URC match against the Sharks.
The match was an opportunity to sharpen up after a three-week hiatus and there were enough bright moments to suggest the Vodacom Bulls are more or less where they need to be.
Cheswill Jooste’s introduction after the break was an inspired decision – he scored moments later – and the Bulls gradually took charge.
His second try, in the 52nd minute, gave them the lead for the first time in the match, an advantage they never conceded. Two more scores, by Nizaam Carr and Demitri Erasmus, finally sealed the deal.
VODACOM BULLS SCORERS
Tries: Embrose Papier, Cheswill Jooste (2), Nizaam Carr, Demitri Erasmus
Conversions: Keagan Johannes (1), Ruben Groenewald (2).
IMAGE COURTESY: Boland Rugby Media/Abeku Nyame
