Jake White has praised the Vodacom Bulls’ effort following their hard-earned win over the Lions to ensure they finish top of the Currie Cup log for the first time since 2005.

The Bulls recorded a 22-15 victory against the Lions at Loftus on Wednesday afternoon, making it a sixth straight win at home since the resumption of the revised season.

However, it wasn’t all plain sailing for the hosts. Playing in their first game since 12 December as a result of a Covid-19 outbreak within the squad, it took the Bulls a while to settle into a rhythm all while the Lions steadily built a nine-point lead.

‘It was always going to be difficult to get a decent start,’ White said in his post-match media conference.

‘But I really have to compliment the guys for how they fought back. I think if you’re going to ask what happened when they turn things around, we must note that it was always going to take a bit of time.

‘We didn’t have much of the ball and when we did, we turned it over. As soon as we held on and got some confidence, things changed.’

As a result of the Bulls’ win and the cancellation of the match between Western Province and the Sharks, White’s team will now host the Lions at Loftus in the semi-finals.

However, the veteran coach believes the Bulls’ form at home indicates Loftus’ status as a fortress has been reinstated and that opposing teams again fear playing there.

‘It’s difficult again for teams to come play here. That’s part of what we’re talking about consistently. I’m really happy. All the players contributed. What more can I say? We finish top, which is great for us.’

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