Sebastian de Klerk, one of the rising stars of the Bulls, faced the media today in an insightful press conference discussing the team’s recent performances, areas of improvement, and his upcoming involvement in the B-alignment camp. The dynamic backline player shared his thoughts on the Bulls’ loss against the Sharks, defensive lapses, and how the team is preparing for their next challenge against the Lions.
Addressing the Bulls’ Mistakes and Areas for Improvement
The Bulls have been under scrutiny following their loss to the Sharks, which exposed key weaknesses in their game. A staggering 19 turnovers and missed tackles contributed to the defeat, something the team is actively working to rectify.
De Klerk acknowledged these shortcomings, emphasizing the need for improved defensive organization and better decision-making under pressure. “We made a lot of mistakes against them, and that obviously put us on the back foot,” he said. “We couldn’t really control the game.”
One major focus for the Bulls this week has been ensuring better control of penalties and strengthening their defensive line to avoid soft tries. “We’re not in crisis mode, but we are working hard on the things we did wrong,” he added. “It’s about controlling what we can control and improving our physicality at the breakdown.”
Positional Debate and Tactical Adjustments
A key talking point in the conference was the debate surrounding the fly-half position and how the team is adjusting to positional shifts. When asked about whether Willie playing outside his preferred position affects his backline’s efficiency, De Klerk remained optimistic, crediting the depth in the squad.
“We have a lot of depth in the team,” he said. “Willie Le Roux has great vision and understands the kicking game well. He brings calmness to the squad, and while positional shifts can be challenging, we trust our players’ ability to adapt.”
This adaptability will be crucial as the Bulls head into a high-stakes clash against the Lions, a team known for their attacking prowess and dangerous outside backs. The Bulls conceded soft tries against the Sharks, something they are keen to avoid repeating.
Bulls’ Mindset Heading into the Lions Derby
Despite last week’s defeat, De Klerk and the Bulls remain confident as they prepare to take on the Lions. The Johannesburg-based side has been in strong form, securing a notable win over the Stormers. However, De Klerk believes the loss to the Sharks has provided valuable lessons rather than a setback.
“Losing is never nice, but we see it as an opportunity to reflect and improve,” he explained. “We don’t panic at the Bulls. We focus on what we can control and use losses as learning moments.”
When asked about whether the team struggles with the “favorites” tag, De Klerk dismissed the idea that being favored in big games affects their performance. “We want to be favorites. It means we’re doing something right,” he said. “Sometimes, small mistakes creep in, but we are working on keeping our error rates low and maintaining focus for the full 80 minutes.”
Excitement for B-Alignment Camp
A personal highlight for De Klerk is his upcoming participation in the Springboks’ B-alignment camp, an opportunity that he describes as “unbelievably humbling.”
“I’m over the moon,” he said. “Just seeing my name in that squad is an honor. It’s an opportunity to learn from World Cup-winning coaches and play alongside some of the best talents in the game.”
For De Klerk, this camp represents more than just personal development—it’s a chance to absorb knowledge, refine his skills, and potentially earn a place in the Springboks’ future plans. “I want to take in as much as I can, enjoy the moment, and keep working hard for my club,” he added.
Looking Ahead
As the Bulls prepare to face the Lions, De Klerk and his teammates are focused on tightening their defense, minimizing errors, and ensuring they are in top form for the remainder of the URC season. With a strong mindset and tactical adjustments, they aim to bounce back and prove why they are among the top contenders.
For De Klerk, both the upcoming match and the alignment camp mark significant moments in his career—opportunities to showcase his talent and contribute to the Bulls’ ambitions this season.
With a blend of experience, young talent, and a hunger for success, the Bulls will be aiming to make a statement in their next fixture. Whether it’s on the field or in the Springbok setup, Sebastian de Klerk’s journey is one to watch.
