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Pretoria - Blue Bulls flyhalf Tian Schoeman has made waves on the South African rugby scene after delivering impressive performances during the early rounds of the Currie Cup.
The men from Pretoria have achieved a 100% winning record after three rounds of the domestic campaign. Their bonus-point victory over the defending champions, Western Province, last weekend has tagged the Blue Bulls as real title contenders.
Conversely, they were situated in unfamiliar territory during the Super Rugby season. Out of 16 games played, the Bulls only managed seven victories and finished ninth in the overall standings. It was a dismal season for the three-time champions.
During Super Rugby, Schoeman had limited opportunities behind Handre Pollard and Jacques-Louis Potgieter. However, with Pollard on Springbok duty and Potgieter moving abroad, Schoeman has grabbed his opportunity with immense force to be the Bulls number one flyhalf.
Schoeman, who featured for Tuks in recent Varsity Cup seasons, has already accumulated 64 points after three rounds of Currie Cup action this season.
While he has been one of the standout performers in the competition, he credited his team-mates for their collective effort.
“We are building a team for the future. There are so many talented youngsters pushing through the ranks and all the guys help one another to become better players,” Schoeman told MyPlayers.co.za.
The 23-year-old, who attended HTS John Vorster, added that he is enjoying the opportunities given at senior level.
“I feel that the more I make an impression during the Currie Cup, I will get better chances in Super Rugby next season. Handre Pollard is a very good player, and that competition for the No 10 jersey will bring the best out of us.”
He lauded Blue Bulls head coach Nollas Marais’ new approach to the team’s game plan. It is a style of play which encourages an attacking brand of rugby - one that suits Schoeman’s strengths.
“The team plays a better brand of rugby. The ball is more loose, which allows the backline to receive more ball and that is where I get to express myself on attack.
“The team goals are to win the Currie Cup, to create a winning culture and regain the status of being a fearful team.
“My personal goals are to achieve an 80% plus kicking record and to add more value on attack.”
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