By SABC Sport
15th October 2024
The Bulls are in high spirits following a bonus-point triumph in Wales, yet Kurt-Lee Arendse has empphasised the importance of tightening their discipline against the Scarlets this Friday.
Arendse, who recorded two tries in the Bulls' 29-19 victory over the Ospreys last week, has been in exceptional form, tallying three tries across two URC matches this season. The Springbok speedster, preparing for a sabbatical with Japan's Sagamihara Dynaboars from December to May, is determined to make the most of his time in the blue jersey.
However, the Bulls' discipline faced scrutiny after they concluded Saturday's match with 13 players on the field. David Kriel received a red card, while Elrigh Louw and Alulutho Tshwakweni both saw yellow in the second half.
"Getting cards, we can control it much better but I wouldn't say it changes the mood of the players," Arendse shared with reporters during a Bulls conference in Cardiff on Tuesday, acknowledging the need for enhancement in this area for their upcoming match against the Scarlets in Llanelli.
"We can definitely learn from it, and our focus is to be clinical and not give cards away [this week]. It definitely affects us on the field in terms of defending because we're fewer in numbers.
"It's not always pleasant to finish the game with 13 or 14 players, but that's where senior players take charge of how to manage the game, and the rest of us buy into what they say. Ultimately, we aim for the results."
The Bulls' depth has been pivotal to their success, with Arendse commending his teammates' ability to read the game. "With the depth and quality of players we have, the guys see space very well, which allows us wings to perform effectively.
"Whenever I get an opportunity, it's about contributing on and off the field. Every time I step onto the field with my teammates, I aim for a positive outcome and to play to the best of my ability.
"I cherish every chance I receive, and I must acknowledge the forwards; they establish the foundation for us in the backline. If they provide momentum, we can capitalize on that."
Currently sitting fourth in the URC standings and unbeaten in three matches, Jake White's Bulls are eager to enhance their overseas record. Arendse highlighted the team's determined approach to touring this season.
"In the past, we have performed well on tour, but this time we said we want to have a good tour," he explained. "It's not always simple, but we aim to secure as many points as possible from these three games.
"Playing away from home is always challenging, but we want to return with a solid record."
Nonetheless, Arendse remains cautious about the challenge their Welsh rivals will present on Friday. "The Scarlets are in form, and they'll definitely want to prove a point. We need to concentrate on correcting our mistakes from last week and execute the game plan the coaches have laid out for us," he noted.
Despite the challenges ahead, Arendse exudes confidence in the Bulls' current form and depth. "We're in a good space at the moment, with players gaining experience in the Currie Cup, which adds to our depth."