It was inevitable that South Africa were going to beat Wales on Saturday, the Springboks’ emphatic victory in Cardiff a testament to their status as the best team on the planet, writes MARK KEOHANE.
The Boks triumphed 45-12 at Principality Stadium, after adding three second-half tries to their four before the break to finish their November tour unbeaten.
Saturday’s win capped a year where Rassie Erasmus’ charges retained their No 1 world ranking and solidified their place as back-to-back world champions.
Writing for TimesLIVE, Keohane asserts that Eben Etzebeth, a late starter due to Jean Kleyn’s withdrawal, epitomised the Boks’ superiority. His brief but impactful 30-minute stint showcased relentless energy and culminated in a remarkable support try set up by Kurt-Lee Arendse.
Keohane highlights Thomas du Toit’s versatility at prop while Wilco Louw’s strength further solidified the powerful Bok pack.
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While pre-match speculation suggested a 50-point blowout, Keohane emphasises the Boks’ pragmatic approach, doing enough to win rather than chasing excessive margins.
“It was a case of champs against chumps in Cardiff and the Springbok champs did not have to break a sweat to win,” he writes.
“The Boks, in the first 35 minutes scored four tries, were twice held up over the line and had one try disallowed for an earlier knock on.
“It was emphatic and a testament to the dominance of the best team in the world.
“The Boks started the year as the world’s No 1 team and they finished it as the world’s No 1 team. Job done!”
Photo: @Springboks/Twitter
The post World’s No 1 get the job done! appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Src: sarugbymag.co.za
