Ackermann backs Springboks after Bulls' 19-50 All Blacks loss

The All Blacks beat the Bulls 50-19 at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday night, but Johan Ackermann believes the Springboks can expose weaknesses in New Zealand’s game during their first Test. The Vodacom Bulls coach said South Africa’s patience and greater experience should punish errors that his young side could not avoid.

Ackermann felt the All Blacks were able to take risks from deep inside their own half against the Bulls, including attempts to run out of pressure. He warned that the same choices could carry greater consequences against the world champions, who are better equipped to turn mistakes into points.

The Bulls coach also pointed to the difference between his side’s approach and the one he expects from South Africa. His players often tried to force openings through individual actions instead of building pressure through several phases. Ackermann believes the Springboks will retain possession more effectively, wait for the correct opportunities and then attack with greater precision.

The breakdown was another key area in the defeat. New Zealand secured quick ball and won turnovers when the Bulls failed to protect possession, while Ackermann expects the Springboks to handle that contest with more experience. He also suggested South Africa would be capable of using the breakdown to put the All Blacks under pressure.

Ackermann stopped short of forecasting the result, but he backed the Springboks to recognise the openings that appeared against his team. He described South Africa as match fit, with settled combinations developed over a long period together, and praised the depth available to the world champions.

Bulls captain Marcell Coetzee said the team’s response after falling behind remained important despite the heavy scoreline. He identified composure and the balance between kicking and running as areas for improvement, while highlighting winger Stravino Jacobs’ try as a significant moment during his return to Test-level intensity. Coetzee also valued the experience gained by the Springbok players involved with the Bulls, saying it would strengthen the wider group ahead of tougher assignments.