Lions flyhalf Chris Smith says breaching the Vodacom Bulls’ defensive line and exploiting any cracks will require sharp thinking as much as execution.
Smith – who’s come under fire in recent week over his game management – will look to silence his critics with a commanding showing at Ellis Park on Saturday against a Bulls backline that boasts strength, pace and experience.
“You are judging momentum,” Smith said as he unpacked his approach to the derby. “There is a lot that goes into it. I am hoping my outside backs are also feeding me a lot of information as to where the space is. That helps in executing the right plan, be that taking on a run or looking for kick-space.”
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One of the headline subplots is Smith’s potential duel with Springbok general Handre Pollard.
“It is awesome to go against Polly,” Smith said. “He is one of the world’s best and he has been for a long time. It is an awesome challenge to look forward to.
“Their backline is filled with stars and guys that can ignite something from anywhere and anytime, so we are going to have to be at our best at all times if we want to match them. As a backs unit, all of us are looking for the opportunity to go up against them.”
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The Lions will draw confidence from their last meeting with the Bulls, when they stunned their neighbours 43-33 at Loftus Versfeld in November. Smith played a central role that day, contributing 13 points with the boot.
“We moved the ball around quite nicely and our forwards were nice and dynamic,” Smith recalled. “We really connected. On turnover ball, we capitalised and we were clinical at times.”
Photo: Kian Abdullah/Gallo Images
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