Tough lessons in defeat by NZ, says De Villiers

AUCKLAND: Jean de Villiers and his Springbok team started their long journey home from Auckland today probably still trying to figure out how they managed to lose to the All Blacks in Dunedin.

The Boks weren’t given much hope of pulling off an upset at the indoor Forsyth Barr Stadium, but a jaded All Black display, coupled with a passionate and determined Bok effort, saw the South Africans on top of the world champions for game.

Pivot Morne Steyn’s dreadful goal-kicking performance cost the Boks the 11 points they would’ve needed to win a game lost 21-11, but a limited tactical approach and poor execution on attack were also major factors in the defeat.

“We had opportunities out there and I think, in a way, it was the same as last week [against Australia in Perth],” De Villiers said.

“At this level, you only get a few opportunities, and you

most of

the have to capitalise on them. New Zealand did that and we didn’t. They are tough lessons, but we have to learn from them.”

Memorable

The Bok skipper, who won his 79th Test cap, felt that his team had contributed to a memorable contest.

“I don’t think [that the Boks surprised the All Blacks]. They have come to expect that from us.”

De Villiers added: “These games don’t get any easier. That’s great, it’s great for the game.”

Even though the Boks are unlikely to contend for the Rugby Championship title, they need to win their remaining Tests against Australia (September 29 in Pretoria) and New Zealand (Soccer City, Soweto, on October 6) to at least end the tournament on a good note ahead of the end-ofyear tour of Europe.

“Obviously we want to win the championship, but we always

PICTURE: REUTERS knew it was going to be tough, especially the first year. We have played three games on the trot, and the travelling is much tougher this year. We have been all over the world, and the other teams have to travel now,” Bok coach Heyneke Meyer said.

“You are still representing your country, and there are huge challenges awaiting us at home. There is still a lot to play for.”