BEST IN THE WORLD
Bok loosies are tops
THE Springboks will reflect on 2013 as a year of progress and frustration as they had to settle for the mildly disheartening task of cementing their place as the world’s second-best team.
Leading up to yesterday’s last game of the year at the Stade de France the Springboks, outside their skirmishes with the All Blacks, had done everything expected of them. The two defeats against New Zealand were the only blots on their copybook and it says much of the advancements they have made in 2013 that the All Blacks, to stay ahead of the pack, have had to have a nearperfect year.
Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer was understandably reluctant to talk about the year that was before they had overcome the final hurdle against France. “We got a 75% winning record [actually 81.81% for this year before yesterday’s game and 69% under him in total] and we got rid of a lot of bogeys. For instance, we had not won in Brisbane in many years. We’ve had a great year, so far.”
That results have been favourable is in no small part due to the impeccable leadership of Jean de Villiers, but what on-the-pitch improvements have helped propel the Boks? “Attacking-wise we’ve played some great rugby,” said Meyer. “Suddenly, we are scoring tries from the 22m line when it has been on to move it [the ball]. We have come on in leaps and bounds. We’ve beaten the Six Nations champions by four tries to nil. I think we have conceded one try in the past five tests [against northern hemisphere opposition].
“The last game isn’t a makeor-break for the year. I really believe a lot of youngsters came through, while some established players came back.”
On that score, some of Meyer’s convictions have been challenged along the way but he deserves kudos for not just giving a player like Willie le Roux game time when Zane Kirchner was his first choice, but allowing the Griquas player to flourish as the scope of his skills become clearer with each test.
Meyer hasn’t turned a blind eye to the potential of experienced players either. The reincorporation of Fourie du Preez, Bakkies Botha and JP Pietersen has had the desired effect in that they have brought experience and ice-in-the-veins composure. Whether their aerobic capabilities will stand the test of time remains to be seen.
On and off the field there has been a commitment to excellence. The addition of breakdown expert Richie Gray to the coaching squad has brought clarity and precision to the area. The Boks had the most turnovers in the Rugby Championship as pilfering skills were diversified across a broader spectrum.
The back row, in particular, has flourished as it introduced guile to an already undoubtedly robust edge.
“The back three have been superb,” said Meyer, “slowing down ball, the number of tackles . . .”
He said Francois Louw and Duane Vermeulen had made 40 tackles between them against Scotland.
“They have been criticised for not having speed and other things. I believe in these conditions, especially, they must be up there with the best. One of the successes of this team is that we have found an unbelievable loose trio. They are big, strong ball carriers, great defenders. You need guys who can stop momentum and who can give you momentum and have a good work rate. I think they can be the best in the world.”
This tour marked the halfway point between World Cups and it is always a good time for coaches to reflect on the path they’ve opted to travel. Meyer will largely feel emboldened that the choices he has made carry merit and that they are worthy of further pursuit.