Handré Pollard's return: Can the Bulls finally claim URC glory?
Comment by Leighton Koopman
The Bulls' 32-7 defeat in the final of the United Rugby Championship against Leinster was a bitter pill to swallow for supporters, but making it to a third final in four seasons shows that they are not that far off from a title-winning campaign.
With a core of experienced Springboks in their midst, the return of Handré Pollard in the flyhalf position, Jan Serfontein coming back as a vastly experienced centre and some exciting young players, the Pretoria outfit will be able to call on more experienced stars than ever before next year.
While there is no shame in losing to a better team, and Leinster were streets ahead of the Loftus side, there will be questions around the Bulls if they can't claim silverware next season, especially with director of rugby Jake White looking to make some key adjustments in the off-season.
Firstly, squad depth remains a concern for White, and he stated it again in his post-match press conference following the final last Saturday at Croke Park in Dublin.
But he was the most successful South African coach when it came to rotating his team.
He ensured he had players fit to take up positions when needed. But injuries to key players had a big influence towards the end of their tournament.
Cameron Hanekom and Elrigh Louw were out for the final and the latter stages of the competition respectively, and the dynamic duo were vital cogs in a physical, yet mobile loose trio of the Bulls.
Hanekom's loss in the final was massive, as was the absence of Kurt-Lee Arendse as well. They need to have like-for-like replacements for their important players.
Secondly, the Bulls must tighten up their discipline and defensive structures.
Leinster found it too easy at times to circumvent their tacklers, and the space they left at the back allowed their opponents' attack to thrive.
Three tries in just 23 minutes effectively sealed the game for the home side, and there was no coming back from that 19-0 deficit.
Too many penalties due to ill-discipline and missed tackles cost them, and if they can eliminate some of those unforced errors, it will help them keep their footing in crunch games.
With the addition of Pollard and Serfontein, their backline will also see some calmer heads.
The Bulls' game management in pressure situations, especially in that final, was poor and cost them.
Pollard's ability to control the tempo and territory under pressure will be critical.
He kicks consistently well and brings additional leadership on the field. He will be that calming influence they dearly need.
With strategic acquisitions to the squad, improved discipline on defence and better game management, the Bulls will be able to finally shed their dreaded URC bridesmaid tag in 2026.
The missing puzzle pieces are almost in place for White's side.
It's now only for them to seize the opportunity to make it their year when the new season starts in September.
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