SA's sensational URC turnaround tells Jake and Bulls not to look far ahead as climax looms

If there's one thing the inaugural United Rugby Championship (URC) campaign has taught Jake White it's to not look too far ahead.

By the end of last year, South African rugby was contemplating a trying, perhaps even depressing first appearance in the new tournament. 

With just two rounds of regular season action remaining for the local franchises, three of them could still finish in the top four.

It's true that several factors made things a tad easier, but it's undeniable that South Africa's turnaround has been startling.

"There's definitely a chance of us ending in the top four, the sun comes up tomorrow," said White following his Bulls' crucial 46-29 victory over Benetton at the weekend.

"I told someone ahead of the game that who would've thought that one of the local sides would be vying for the top spot on the overall log? If things work out for the Stormers, they can be No 1 [when the regular season ends next month]. 

"It's a thought that wouldn't have crossed many people's minds six weeks ago. In the end though, it's about controlling what we can. We have two games left and need to win them both.

"We need to ensure we play as best we can and whatever happens around that is out of our control."

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Indeed, the Bulls - who are in the play-off spots in eighth - find themselves in interesting territory.

For once, they aren't sitting at a summit looking down on the rest, rather hovering in contention and teasing opponents over whether a poor start might prove deceptive.

Regardless, a short-term focus on just what's in front of them and their pedigree could prove a deadly combination.

"It's the first time in a long while - and I'm not saying