Assistant coach Lumumba Currie said the Junior Springboks are targeting an improved performance against hosts Australia when the teams clash on Tuesday.
Speaking from the team’s base in Twin Waters on the Australian eastern seaboard, Currie said the team has identified several focus areas following last week’s 13-13 draw against New Zealand in in the U20 Rugby Championship at the Sunshine Coast Stadium in Queensland.
The South Africans pride themselves on their physicality and Currie said they want to to see an improvement from the pack against the Australians, who themselves want to show better intent after their loss to Argentina.
“We want our set piece to give us better momentum, to put them under pressure and to convert out opportunities into points,” said Currie. “However, we are not underestimating Australia and we expect a good reaction from them, for which we must be ready.”
Last week’s opening round of matches were played in torrential rain and a strong wind, making it difficult for both sides, especially during the first half.
Currie said similar conditions are expected for Tuesday’s match, and the coaching staff want the group not only to gain experience of playing in such conditions, but also to win.
“The U20 Championship will be played in similar conditions in Cape Town so it is important for this group to learn to adopt and play in such weather situations,” he added.
Head coach Bafana Nhleko made several changes to the starting lineup and according to Currie, these selections were part of the team’s planning.
“We have 31 players here in the group, we are building squad depth and want them to gain international experience and to continue their growth as a group,” he said.
“We must also keep in mind we are playing three internationals in 12 days, so managing player load is important.”
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
