Bulls out to restore pride in URC after horror run

The Bulls will be going all out this weekend to try and restore their pride when they take on Zebre in their United Rugby Championship (URC) match as part of a double header at Ellis Park on Saturday afternoon.

The Bulls finally brought to an end a horror run of 10 consecutive losses in all competitions over the past weekend, when a full strength team thumped the Griquas in the Currie Cup.

They will be keen to take that momentum into their clash against URC whipping boys Zebre, with them set to end a four game losing run in the competition against their Italian challengers.

‘Dragging name through mud’

Scrumhalf Embrose Papier admitted that it had been a rough few months for the union and that the players were working extremely hard to put things right.

“It’s very important (for the players to take responsibility). The Bulls are a big union. Every player here is out to minimise, perhaps even avoid mistakes. You don’t want a situation where you’re responsible for dragging the Bulls’ name through the mud,” explained Papier.

“We try our best, we’re really working very hard. Our sense of responsibility is huge currently. We realise we need to be accountable and we do that by going out every Saturday and playing to the best of our abilities. We need to work harder.”

‘Important to focus on basics’

Papier has been in top form for the Bulls of late, with some impressive stand out performances raising the profile of the seven cap Springbok, and he is happy to be contributing positively once again thanks to some very hard work off the field.

“It’s a comforting thought, especially when scrumhalf play is so often associated with making magic happen,” said Papier.

“It’s important to focus on the basics because I believe that’s what brings consistency to your game. If you’re consistent, those small flashy things to your game like a snipe or doing something wild almost come more naturally.

“In the end, scrumhalf is a position where the mundane matters, like being an effective and consistent kicker and providing quick service to your ball-carriers.”

The Bulls are currently seventh on the URC log and a full house of points against Zebre would possibly seal their place in the knockouts ahead of the final round of pool matches.