Springboks brace for big backlash
FRANCO: ‘I KNOW THE FRENCH, THEY WILL COME HARD’
Les Bleus to recall seven first-choice players in Durban. Umhlanga
The Springboks are expecting the French to be much better prepared for Saturday’s second Test in Durban, believes Bok backline coach Franco Smith. Because the Boks had five uncapped players at Loftus last week and adopted a new playing style it could have taken the French offguard, said Smith.
“They will have a fresh approach in their play, while we were a bit of a dark horse for them,” said Smith.
“They didn’t quite know how we were going to play and they will make a few plans to adapt to our way of playing.”
While they will recall seven of their first-choice players who were rested last week, Smith said they are a proud rugby nation and would have been hurt by the 37-14 defeat.
“I know the French quite well, I know from experience they will try to hit back. I know they will be more physical and there will definitely be a few changes in their side,” said Smith.
But he added the Boks also realised they left a few tries on the field.
“Four or more tries went a-begging, there were linebreaks from Siya Kolisi and Oupa Mohoje right in the beginning when he got within two metres of the tryline.
“The Loftus surface was uncharacteristically very firm and the ball bounced higher than expected like the one that bounced over Courtnall Skosan’s head might have been a good opportunity.
“And then one or two times when the ball didn’t stick when we created the space.”
But Smith said what delighted him was the opportunities created.
“I don’t coach what could’ve happened but what we can make happen that’s important. It’s a really nice confidence builder that we are creating the space at this level,” he said. “And with all teams it’s about making those things gel so that we can use those opportunities a bit more.”