Jantjies ‘needs our support’

It was always going to take some time for Springbok flyhalf Elton Jantjies (below) to settle in at Test match level, according to national coach Allister Coetzee.

After a brilliant run with the Lions in Super Rugby, Jantjies has come in for criticism after inconsistent performances for the Springboks against Ireland in the June Tests and last weekend against Argentina.

“One needs to give Elton enough opportunity and support to grow in his role,” said Coetzee ahead of the Rugby Championship Test against Argentina tomorrow night in Salta.

“He has only played six Tests at No 10 and only his fourth as a starter, so he is also learning lessons and hopefully he will show it this weekend,” said Coetzee.

With the two top No 10s of last year Handre Pollard and Pat Lambie not available, Coetzee doesn’t see fullback Johan Goosen as an alternative at No 10.

“I would like for Johan to focus on No 15 and not see him as a backup No 10,” said Coetzee.

“He joined us a week ago so he has been with us for two weeks and there’s a few things he has to get used to,” he said.

Goosen seemed uncertain under the high ball last week in Nelspruit, but the safety mechanism of a Morne Steyn on the bench gives Coetzee peace of mind.

“At Test level it’s too important for Johan to think No 15 and No 10 and you need a calm head there. We have Morne on the bench to come and do the job for us,” said Coetzee.

“Both Elton and Johan are attacking-minded players, while Morne brings a calmness and an appreciation of the conditions in Salta.

“Morne has proven last year with his kicking prowess that he can turn a side like Argentina around and capitalise. When there’s opportunities he can put points on the board. He has done that before.”