Tensions Mount Ahead of Currie Cup Final

October 21- Despite a good performance on the field against Western Province in Newlands, the Blue Bulls coach, Frans Ludeke believes that his team will need to play much better if it hopes to win the Currie Cup Final on October 31.

The Bulls will meet the Free State Cheetahs at Loftus Versfeld after their victory over WP and already tensions are mounting.

It was almost a sure victory for Western Province, who were enjoying the backing of their home crowd at Newlands and a lead that continued up to three minutes before the final whistle.

However, the Bulls' Morne Steyn clinched his team's place in the Currie Cup final with a long range penalty, beating the stunned Western Province 21-19.

"We played against a good side who were competitive at the breakdowns and also matched us in the kicking game," said coach Ludeke. "We did well to grind out the victory playing away."

"It was an awesome experience for the guys to play at a packed Newlands and it lifted both sides, but especially the home side," he continued. "We can still move up a few gears and the rhythm is still coming. There are areas which need fine tuning."

Ludeke said that before going into the game, his team knew that they would need to give a special performance. He praised Steyn's final kick and said that it was not an easy feat, "with the wind and all."

"We as a team are going to have to lift our effort before the final against the Cheetahs," he said. "We are a team with high standards and as much as it was a great team effort we let go of a lot of opportunities."

The Free State Cheetahs beat the Sharks in the second semi final and are motivated to play in the upcoming final.

"The Cheetahs are a good side," praised Ludeke. "They played well against the Sharks and showed a lot of character. That is the way we know the Cheetahs, they are never out and we know that it is going to be a tough one."

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