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'We’ve got quite big forwards, a big pack, so they will try move us around. They have dangerous backs outside so we should just try to keep the ball away from them.'
The Bulls scrum has dominated all opposition in recent months. Picture: Gordon Arons/Gallo Images
The Bulls anticipate fast, running rugby from the classy Edinburgh backline during their Challenge Cup quarter-final on Saturday (kick-off 1.30pm).
In response, Bulls flyhalf Johan Goosen said they hope to use their strong forwards and dominant set-pieces to control the game.
The teams clash on an artificial pitch at the relatively small 7,800-capacity Hive Stadium. The smooth surface makes for good running, and Edinburgh’s backline is full of international talent who always make the most of it.
South African-born wing Duhan van der Merwe, Australian centre Mosese Tuipulotu, South African centre Wes Goosen, Irish-born flyhalf Ben Healy, English-born flyhalf James Lang and scrumhalves Ben Vellacott and Ali Price, and Argentinian fullback Emiliano Boffelli have been crucial to Edinburgh’s success in the last few seasons.
They back up Scottish internationals Darcy Graham, Matt Scott, Matt Currie, Mark Bennett and Ross Thompson, also all in the backline.
Everitt will have ‘tricks up his sleeve’
Returning from a lengthy knee injury layoff last week, Goosen said they face a “tough match” against the quality backline headed by a former Bulls coaching consultant.
Former Sharks head coach, Sean Everitt now leads the Scottish side.
“I’ve known coach Sean for a while. I must say he’s a great guy, a great coach. I think he will have a few tricks up his sleeve,” Goosen smiled.
“It will be a tough match for us. We are looking forward to that, playing against our old coach.”
Bulls set-piece to counter Edinburgh’s speed
Turning his attention to Edinburgh’s strong backline, Goosen said the Bulls would need to play to their own strength in the forward pack to keep the ball away from them.
“We’ve got quite big forwards, a big pack, so they will try move us around. They have dangerous backs outside so we should just try to keep the ball away from them, then we will be fine.”
“It’s a difficult place to play, the wind can be a factor there. We’ve played them in the past and have ideas about how to play them there.
“They have a few South Africans there, a few big guys. The set-piece will be massive. If we can get one over them in the set-piece it will be a good match to play for.
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