Bulls coach Johan Ackermann has identified a potential weakness in New Zealand's approach ahead of the opening Test at Ellis Park on Saturday, suggesting the All Blacks may find themselves in trouble if they attempt the same risky plays that undid his side at Loftus Versfeld.
The All Blacks ran in 50 points against the Bulls on Saturday evening, at times launching ambitious attacks from deep inside their own half. Ackermann believes the scoreboard luxury afforded by a sizeable lead allowed New Zealand freedoms they will not enjoy against Rassie Erasmus' world champions.
"The All Blacks maybe had the scoreboard luxury tonight to try a few things from deep in their own half that I don't think they'll get away with against the Springboks," Ackermann told reporters. "You know, that's the way they do play sometimes, but they may find themselves a bit in trouble with that."
The Bulls coach emphasised the gulf in preparation between his franchise side and the Springboks, pointing to match fitness, experience and quality planning as key differentiators. "Obviously the Springboks are match-fit, and if there's quality players, they've played a long time together, and they've got some of the best heads in the world putting a plan together," Ackermann said.
Despite the heavy defeat, Ackermann believes the Bulls' performance offered lessons for the Springboks, particularly around patience in possession. "I think the Springboks will see that there are opportunities if you keep the ball in hand against the All Blacks, and I'm sure that they will look at the game and work on that," he said.