Though the defending champions were forced to resort to their traditional strengths in the opening win over the Pumas in wet conditions, Blue Bulls coach Gert Smal says it won’t be a common sight this season.

A rain downpour in the season opener at the Mbombela Stadium made it difficult for either team to build phases with ball in hand.

However, the Bulls pack, featuring a host of players who will be stepping up to the Vodacom United Rugby Championship squad, was far too strong for the hosts, as the visitors turned to their trusted maul to do the damage.

“We did well with our mauls,” Smal said post-match.

“The Pumas didn’t really manage to stop us and went offside quite a few times, which gave us the platform of penalty advantages. We actually scored from two mauls.

“It’s something that’s important to us, to be honest. We’re always working on our mauls because it’s one of the strengths of the local game and we want to make it even better.”

Although the rugby was not attractive, Smal said that the Bulls are keen to show they have more strings to the bow as the season goes on.

“Look, the conditions weren’t ideal and it meant we couldn’t approach the game in the way we had planned to,” said Smal.

“That said, Jake and I are on the same page. We coached together for five years at the Springboks, so I know exactly how he thinks.

“Because of the conditions, the game slowed down quite a bit, but we want to play a faster game and make it more attractive for everybody.”

Photo: Dirk Kotze/Gallo Images