New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson has weighed in on the debate over whether the All Blacks need to mirror the Springboks’ style to reclaim World Cup glory.
Reflecting on the Kiwis’ 12-11 defeat to South Africa in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final on Sky Sport NZ’s ‘The Breakdown’, Robertson, while not advocating a complete overhaul, emphasises the three-time world champions’ need for evolution.
Acknowledging the Boks’ success rooted in a solid defence, effective kicking, and precise set-pieces, he stresses the importance of winning in multiple ways.
“Test football is a game of strength, the World Cup is a game of finals and strengths,” Robertson said.
“That’s what they [Springboks] play too. They are a great defensive side, great kicking side, great set-piece side, and they kick the goals to win.
ALSO: Rassie calls up ‘next-gen’ Boks
“The majority of major events with ‘kicking’ involved, finish with a kick to win it. Soccer, [American] football, rugby, league, the critical ones are won from the foot.
“And they won it off the foot. They made the kicks. Incredibly tight margins at that level, they went back to what they were good at, and that’s the shape of the game.
“The big part for me this year is to win and evolve, so we can win in two to three different ways. That’s the key to bringing success over a four-year period.”
Robertson outlines goals, including triumphing in adverse weather, securing victories away from home, and refining game management.
The former Crusaders’ mentor eyes diverse defensive structures tailored to opponents. Despite the challenge, Robertson expresses optimism, citing a balanced squad of experienced late-20s players and a hungry young generation poised to seize opportunities.
Photo: Ian Kington/AFP
The post Razor: Boks have showed us the way appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Src: sarugbymag.co.za
