Jake White credits rotation strategy for Bulls' URC playoff push

By SABC Sport
12th May 2025

Bulls head coach Jake White says consistent player rotation has been a crucial factor in his side's strong United Rugby Championship campaign, following a 45-21 win over Cardiff at Loftus Versfeld.

The Bulls surged into second place on the URC log-temporarily ahead of Glasgow Warriors, who later lost to Benetton in Treviso - as they target a home quarter-final and possible home semi-final in the playoffs.

White highlighted the depth within his squad as key to their success, particularly when injuries forced early changes.

"For Zak (Burger) to play 80 minutes at 9 today in the absence of Embrose Papier didn't worry me - he's had enough game time this season," said White. "For Keagan (Johannes) to come on at 10 for Goosen didn't worry me either-he's played 10 in big games this season."

Starting flyhalf Johan Goosen was forced off the field in the 12th minute with a suspected serious knee injury. A visibly emotional White declined to speculate, simply saying: "I feel for the guy."

The Bulls were in full control by halftime, leading 31-0, and extended their advantage to 45-7 before Cardiff crossed for two late tries.

"It was one of those games where we wanted to go through Cardiff," White explained. "They're a difficult team to get around, and we picked a team that could challenge them physically."

White pointed out that his forward pack weighed in at 940kg-a deliberate move to gain dominance at the collision and breakdown areas.

"If you consider how many carries a guy like (lock) Cobus Wiese had in the first 50 minutes, there was clearly a plan for him to take the ball into contact repeatedly," said White.

Despite showing strong form in away matches this season, White was pleased to see the Bulls delivering a confident performance in front of their home crowd.

"One of my messages to the players was to enjoy it," he said. "We've done well enough to give ourselves a chance of getting a home semi, but we need to win a quarter-final first."

The Bulls conclude their league campaign next Saturday against the Dragons at Loftus before turning their attention to the knockout rounds, with a home quarter-final scheduled for 31 May.