The Bulls are confident going into Saturday's big United Rugby Championship semi-final against Leinster in Pretoria.

The Bulls will enjoy the home ground advantage and want to draw on the energy of the crowd as they target the final of the competition for a second time in three seasons.

Leinster arrived in South Africa earlier than normal with a near full-strength side in order to acclimatise better.

The Bulls defence has been an area of concern in the URC, and this despite the team from the capital city being one of the most ruthless side on attack.

The Bulls lock and captain Ruan Nortjé said to beat Leinster their defence must be on point.

“Obviously, defence is going to be massive for us, we're going to have to be much better,” said Nortjé.

“Defensively, we've leaked a few tries, so I think that's an area where they're going to try and exploit us. So, we have to be much better defensively and also pride ourselves on our physicality.”

The man who made his Springboks debut in Bloemfontein against Wales added that against a team like Leinster the margins are so small they cannot allow their opponents to get a sniff, otherwise they will be made to pay.

“I just think they're such a quality side that it's all about the small margins. As soon as they get a small advantage or sniff on less numbers on a set or a place on the field, they capitalise on that opportunity.

“If I can sum it up, they are very, very good at capitalising on opportunities and seeing the small things. “The big difference with Leinster and other teams is that as soon as they get small opportunities, or as soon as they get a good breakdown and quick ball, they are unstoppable.”

Saturday’s semi-final at Loftus kicks off at 16:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport