Bulls are riding high before clash

The Bulls believe their perseverance during a rough patch has paid off at the right time, heading into the crunch part of the season.

- Nicholas Zaal

The Pretoria union struggled after a good start to the year, and suffered seven defeats in a row to fall out of the United Rugby Championship top eight.

But a change of coaching personnel, return of Springboks and adjustment to new coach Johan Ackermann's methods saw the Bulls secure a win against Pau that booked them a spot in the Champions Cup last 16 against Glasgow Warriors, and then win three in the URC to move back into playoff contention.

Their wins over the Lions (52-17) and Sharks (41-12) in the last two games were especially impressive, coming with a collective 15 tries to four.