Ackermann Urges Calm After Bulls President’s Scathing Criticism Following Ulster Defeat

Bulls head coach Johan Ackermann has urged patience and unity after coming under fire from his own president in the wake of the team’s 28–7 defeat to Ulster in their United Rugby Championship clash in Belfast on Saturday.

Despite the return of several Springboks — including fly-half Handré Pollard — the Bulls were comprehensively outplayed, prompting a strong rebuke from Bulls Rugby Union president Willem Strauss.

In a broadcast group message, Strauss labelled the performance as “arguably our worst since joining the URC,” adding:

“Terrible effort. Not interested and disconnected. We’ve now conceded 14 tries in just three games. We need urgency and intensity ASAP.”

Ackermann declined to be drawn into a direct response but downplayed the remarks, instead calling for accountability and composure within the squad.

“Obviously there are going to be a lot of people with comments, and that’s fine,” Ackermann said. “But for us, the reality is that families go through tough times. Show me one family that’s perfect, that doesn’t fight or go through difficult moments. It’s the same with a team.

“We’re in this together — players, staff, everyone. There’s no hiding and no easy way out. All we can do is look at ourselves, fix what needs to be fixed, and take accountability. We can either sit and sulk, or we can stand up. As South Africans, we’ve shown many times that we can stand up when it matters.”

The Bulls began the season with home victories over Ospreys (53–40) and Leinster (39–31), though both matches exposed defensive vulnerabilities. Ackermann admitted that those weaknesses were again costly against Ulster.

“Ultimately, it’s about tackle dominance,” he explained. “There are too many times where one player has to cover for another — then it’s a ripple effect. We didn’t have ideal preparation, with injuries and limited numbers, but we can’t hide behind that. We need to fix it, and fix it quickly. Defence wins you games.”

The Bulls will look to bounce back when they face another Irish side on Friday, hoping to regain the intensity that defined their early-season form.