Johan Ackermann has revealed the simple halftime challenge that inspired the Vodacom Bulls’ remarkable comeback semi-final victory over Glasgow Warriors at Murrayfield on Saturday.
Trailing 21-10 at the break after finding themselves 21-3 down midway through the first half, the Bulls looked in danger of seeing their URC campaign come to an end.
Instead, they produced a stirring second-half fightback to secure a 22-21 victory and book their place in a fourth URC final in five seasons.
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According to Ackermann, the turning point came in the changing room.
“At half time, a lot of the senior guys stood up and said we can’t control the result, but we can control whether we go into our shell or not,” said the Bulls coach.
“I only asked for one thing: score the first try in the second half. If we score, it’s 21-17 and then we’re in the game.
“The boys responded and I’m pleased with the character they showed.”
Ackermann paid tribute to the collective effort that powered the comeback, reserving special praise for both his forwards and the impact made by the replacements.
“Our scrum was very good tonight, so the forwards worked extremely hard,” he said.
“I felt every player who came on from the bench made a difference and it’s credit to how each player took up their role.
“Credit even to the players who didn’t play, who helped prepare the team and brought the energy.
“I think it was just a great performance from the boys.”
The victory also avenged the defeat the Bulls suffered against Glasgow in the 2024 URC final at Loftus Versfeld and keeps alive their hopes of finally lifting the trophy after three previous appearances in the championship decider.
Photo: @BlueBullsRugby/X
