Knowing the value of the 'blue wave' of support they will get at Loftus Versfeld, the Bulls were determined to finish on top of the standings ahead of the play-offs and now they plan to 'ride' that wave when they face the Crusaders in the semifinal on Saturday.

Bulls vice-captain Fourie du Preez, speaking to iafrica.com in the build-up to Saturday's big showdown, acknowledged the threat posed by the seven-time champions.

Du Preez said they know exactly what to expect from the Crusaders on Saturday.

"It is always incredibly tough and very physical [against the Crusaders]," Du Preez told this website.

"They are a very dangerous team with the ball in hand, and especially on the counter attack, they are just an incredible team to play against."

However, the Bulls will have the advantage of playing at fortress Loftus.

In their league encounter, in Week Eight, the Crusaders edged the Bulls 16-13 (with a late penalty) in Christchurch.

"There is no doubt it is a lot easier to play them at Loftus," Du Preez said, adding: "Christchurch is one of the toughest venues in the world to visit.

"There is no doubt they will come at us with everything they've got on Saturday, that is why it was so important for us to win [against the Sharks in Durban last week] as it is a lot easier for us at Loftus," the scrumhalf added.

Describing the Super 14 as "15 weeks of international rugby", Du Preez said the Bulls will again have to be on top of their game 100 percent.

"If you are not on top of your game you will get beaten and you can get some big hidings in the S14," he added.

365

RSS
Digg
de.li.cious
facebook