SA Schools look for a face-saving victory

THE SA Schools rugby team play England today ( 2pm kickoff) at City Park in Crawford and will want to end the South African Under-19 International series on a high following back-to-back defeats to Wales (30-28) and France (13-8).

The young men in green have played well below expectations.

Myriad basic errors, coupled to an out-dated game plan centred around the forwards’ has led to their demise.

The SA youngsters won’t need reminding that the class of 2016 went unbeaten against the same opponents and that the host nation has been by far the most dominant force in the competition now in its sixth year.

Losing their opener against Wales at Paul Roos was through their own doing; the Baby Boks were awful in the first half, and while they scored two tries towards the end of the encounter, it was a case of a little too late for the homeboys.

Take nothing away from Wales, they played like a team on a mission showing plenty of passion and commitment while punching above their weight in the physical exchanges. Their back seven operated at high pace and with vision on attack, while their opposite numbers could only watch as their engine room staff hogged the ball but did show glimpses of magic when in possession.

Against France at Paarl Gymnasium on Tuesday, it was much of the same from the Baby Boks who seem devoid of ideals when in control.

The engine room staff are a tough lot who enjoy taking it to their opposite numbers but lack penetration in the score zone utilising the pick-and-go.

To starve their backs of ball isn’t helping matters when they look so dangerous as inside centre Diego Appollis has shown. He’s been a dangerous player on just about every occasion and would love to showcase his ability along with those around him.

SA Schools coach Lance Sendin will want to see his charges look after their setpiece lineout ball and cut out handling errors at crucial times, and stop butchering clear try- scoring opportunities.

Wales begin proceedings at City Park taking on France (12.30pm). The Welsh followed up their win over SA with another against England and will want a repeat against France to end as top dogs.