As the Bulls gear up for the new United Rugby Championship season, there’s a palpable sense of unfinished business within the team.
Their consistent presence in the play-off stages of the competition is impressive, yet the coveted trophy remains elusive.
A Track Record of Near Misses
The Bulls have achieved notable successes, including becoming one of the few teams to beat Leinster both home and away during the play-offs.
They’ve made it to two finals but fell short both times and were knocked out in the quarter-finals in their second season of the VURC.
Despite these impressive feats, they haven’t yet clinched the trophy, having been narrowly denied last season.
The Feeling of Incompletion
At a recent awards ceremony celebrating individual achievements from the past season, there was a shared sentiment among the players that their journey in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship is far from over.
Despite accolades and personal successes, the overarching goal remains to secure an overall victory in the competition.
Johan Goosen’s Drive
Johan Goosen, who was named Vodacom Bulls Back of the Season, expressed his contentment with the past season but acknowledged the team’s ultimate goal: winning the final.
“It’s nice to get accolades, but this is a team sport, and our goal as a team was to win the final,” he said.
Goosen is eager for the new season, feeling in great shape and excited about the team’s growth.
“We still need to win this competition,” he added.
Cameron Hanekom’s Resolve
Cameron Hanekom, who was honored as the Vodacom Bulls Players’ Player of the Season in his debut year, shared a similar sentiment. “It’s a special feeling to be recognized by your teammates,” he said.
Hanekom reflected on the lessons learned from the final and how it strengthened his resolve.
“Mentally, you get stronger as you work through that,” he noted, eager to build on his standout performance in the semi-final against Leinster.
A Taste of Success
The young star recalled his Man of the Match performance against Leinster with enthusiasm.
“I was lost for words.
It was an unbelievable feeling to play my heart out and contribute to the team,” he said.
The experience left him hungry for more.
Award Winners
Other notable award winners included Elrigh Louw, named Vodacom Bulls Forward of the Season, and Kurt-Lee Arendse, who took home both the Vodacom Bulls MVP and Player of the Season awards.
Looking Ahead
With such a strong foundation and a clear sense of purpose, the Bulls are more determined than ever to chase the ultimate prize in the upcoming season.
The sense of unfinished business will surely fuel their quest for glory.
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