The Stormers are expecting a moerse forwards battle against the Bulls at Loftus.
Cape forwards coach Russell Winter believes that neither side showed their hand up front during their SuperHero Sunday clash two weeks ago.
And he reckons that means that this Saturday’s 5.15 pm Super Rugby opener is going to be a whole new ball game at the setpiece and breakdown.
Winter says: “I don’t think they gave away too much and neither did we. But we are proud of how the guys that did play really put up their hands.
“I really do think this weekend is going to be different from what we saw during the SuperHero Sunday.
SPRINGBOK QUALITY: Alistair Vermaak. Photo: BACKPAGEPIX
“It’s really going to be a big battle up front on Saturday.”
That manne who put their hands up were Juarno Augustus at No.8, with Sikhumbuzo Notshe impressing off the bench.
In the front row, hooker Scarra Ntubeni and loosehead Ali Vermaak are backed to do the job with Springboks Bongi Mbonambi and Steven Kitshoff not ready yet.
And with No.8 and hooker being crucial for a strong spine, Winter believes he has the players to match up against Duane Vermeulen and Schalk Brits.
He says: “Looking at their spine, they have a really strong one. But in saying that, we've got players at No.2 and No.8 who are really good and that will be a key match-up for them.”
“Notshe has been trying really hard and he’s been doing well, Trokkie’s [Augustus] coming through and he’s going to get a chance this year.
SOLID AT HOOKER: Scarra Ntubeni. Photo: BACKPAGEPIX
"And I’m sure he is going to prove what a good player he is.
"But I tell you what, Alistair has been fantastic. He had a great Currie Cup in my opinion and he deserves a go. I’m sure he was knocking on the Springbok door.
"For me, he was one of the stand-out players in the Currie Cup.
“He’s a great scrummager and was great in the loose. I really hope that this will be his year.
“He is capable of playing for the Boks. I’m holding thumbs for him.”