Lukhanyo Am has called for the Springboks to make better decisions on defence in Cape Town after being breached a couple of times by the All Blacks at Ellis Park.
The Springboks staged a strong comeback from 27-17 down late in the game last week to stay unbeaten in the Rugby Championship.
All Blacks wing Caleb Clarke grabbed a brace of tries at Ellis Park, as the visitors broke down what is usually a very stubborn Bok defence.
Am, who appears set to start in the rematch in Cape Town on Saturday, says the Boks will have to wisen up when it comes to scrambling back to stop a talented All Blacks attack.
“We know that New Zealand are a skilful side, from 1 to 15,” Am said. “At times, we as defenders need to be smarter, when we are not on structured defence.
“At times, we are being challenged when we don’t have the right personnel in the defensive line. We just have to make better decisions when it comes to that.
“On the flip side, our defence has been pretty amazing this season, as well as over the years. It’s given us a lot of turnover opportunities from putting teams under pressure.
“So we will stick to what we are good at. Hopefully we just make better decisions.”
With the Freedom Cup – and potentially the southern hemisphere title – on the line, Am expects no favours from the All Blacks.
“You can never write New Zealand off. They are a quality side. We know this game will be even tougher,” the Bok centre said.
“Playing teams back-to-back can be even harder. You get a few pictures so you know what’s coming. So it will definitely be more intense, but we back the prep we’ve done this week. We will go out there and accept the challenge.”
Photo: Dave Rowland/Getty Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
