Rugby: Bulls have been there, done that

Bulls captain Victor Matfield. Photo / Getty Images

Two-thirds of the Bulls squad will have fresh memories of their 2007 triumph when they take to Loftus Versfeld for Sunday morning's (NZT) Super 14 rugby final against the Chiefs.

Fifteen of the players named today in coach Frans Ludeke's 22-man group were involved in the 20-19 final defeat of the Sharks two years ago.

The only question mark is over second five-eighth Wynand Oliver but otherwise no injury problems are bothering Ludeke as the South African giants prepare to claim a second Super rugby title for their country.

The first came via a memorable finale at Durban, although captain Victor Matfield warned his players to consign that stirring display to the history books.

"We have to look at it as a new game, it's a final and anything can happen," Matfield told journalists.

"It's all about those 80 minutes, and who is going to use their opportunities.

"So I don't think having played in a final previously is going to play a major role, but it is nice to have that experience."

Olivier has been named to start ahead of Marius Delport in the only change from the 15 who started in the 36-23 semifinal defeat of the Crusaders at Pretoria last weekend.

However, the in-form No 12 who is being strongly touted for a Springboks role this year, is still hampered by a hip injury.

He had a gym session on Tuesday morning and was scheduled to begin running at full speed tonight (NZT).

"We'll make a call by Friday at the latest, but tomorrow will be a good indication," Ludeke said.

Olivier scored a crucial try just before halftime when the Bulls beat the Chiefs 33-27 in Pretoria a month ago.

Ludeke repeated Matfield's mantra by asking his players and supporters to ignore that game, which was an exciting, end-to-end fixture.

"You need a complete game in the Super 14. A final's a little bit different, it's like test rugby," he said. "That's what we're going to need on Saturday. It will be a close encounter, it will be tough.

"We can build on the foundation that was laid through the season, but we have to create new opportunities, finish those, make our first-time tackles in defence and have a great work ethic for the whole game if we hope to win."

- NZPA