Nortjé: Bulls in full Test mode for crucial URC semi-final against Sharks
United Rugby Championship
Bulls skipper Ruan Nortjé says his side are preparing for their URC semi-final showdown with the Sharks like a Test match, emphasising focus, discipline and set-piece dominance ahead of Saturday’s all-South African clash at Loftus. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Bulls captain Ruan Nortjé has acknowledged the mental and physical challenge posed by facing the Sharks in the upcoming United Rugby Championship (URC) semi-final at Loftus Versfeld.
Despite the Sharks’ dramatic victory over Munster in the quarter-finals, Nortjé wants his side to remain focused on the task ahead, highlighting the importance of resilience and executing their gameplan on Saturday (6.15pm kick-off).
“When we reach the play-offs, we try to always get ourselves in the headspace of Test-match level preparation,” said Nortjé ahead of the clash.
“We had the same mentality against Edinburgh, and it will be more of the same this weekend. The fact that it is a South African derby just adds more fuel, excitement, and tension. So, we have to ensure that we are mentally prepared and get our game plan ready for what awaits.”
Nortjé added that they cannot afford to switch off for even one minute or concede a yellow card. He highlighted lapses in concentration against Edinburgh, which allowed the Scottish club to mount a strong attack in the first half when the Bulls were down to 14 men.
The Bulls trailed 21–8 at one stage, but their fightback underscored their championship credentials. However, he warned that they must be wary of the Sharks’ scrum, which could provide a potent attacking platform.
“The Sharks were definitely brilliant scrum-wise last weekend. I think that’s a massive part of what brought them through that game, so I must give them credit — the whole front row. It’s definitely going to be a massive battle at the set-piece.
"We can only prepare as well as we can and ensure we are ready when Saturday comes. We must be composed and make swift changes on the field — be ready for anything, and expect anything.”
“We are blessed to play in another semi-final. We know there are a lot of other teams that would also want to be in this position, and that are capable of being in the semi-final.”
Apart from the forwards, he pointed to the Sharks’ half-backs, Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse, as major threats, along with inside centre André Esterhuizen as their primary strike-runner.
He knows the Durbanites thrive on unpredictability and moments of individual brilliance, making it essential for the Bulls to stay composed and disciplined.
Nortjé stressed the need to trust their systems, rely on their set-piece strength, and not allow the Sharks’ high tempo and creativity to disrupt their game plan. Maintaining focus and emotional control will be key to securing a place in the final.