Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus described the team's convincing 66-7 victory against Italy at the Allianz Stadium in Turin as satisfying, but emphasized the importance of improving their performance. The Boks dominated the match, scoring nine tries and conceding only one. This win marks the first of their Nations Championship Northern Series matches. Erasmus expressed satisfaction with the team's discipline, highlighting that they conceded only one penalty in the first half and five penalties and turnovers in the entire game.
The team made a late change before kick-off when Salmaan Moerat withdrew due to a back spasm, and Lood de Jager started the match while Franco Mostert joined the bench. Erasmus mentioned that Moerat had a back spasm on Thursday, but it seemed to clear up before the captain's practice. However, during the warm-up, Moerat experienced more back spasms, and Erasmus hopes it's not a serious issue. Moerat is the only reported casualty from the game.
Erasmus acknowledged that the team's performance was not perfect, particularly in the second half. He noted that Italy, despite being 45 points down, started playing more aggressively, and the Boks' changes disrupted their rhythm. However, Erasmus refrained from criticizing the team's second-half performance, given the convincing win. He emphasized that the team must play better to be competitive against France and Ireland in their upcoming matches.
The Springboks will depart for Paris later on Saturday evening to focus on their Test against France at the Stade de France. Erasmus expressed happiness with the team's discipline and their ability to build consistency. He attributed this to the team's experience and the gradual introduction of new players, such as Ethan Hooker and Morne van den Berg.
Erasmus highlighted that the team has been together for eight years, allowing them to develop a strong understanding of the system. He mentioned that bringing in new players has been a gradual process, and when the team is match-fit and ready, they can perform well. Erasmus expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, given that they had been away from each other for a month.
The Springboks scored six tries in the first half, securing a 45-0 lead, and added three more tries in the second half. Erasmus acknowledged that the team's performance was not 100% perfect, particularly in the second half. However, he emphasized that the win was a satisfying result, especially considering the team's month-long break.
Erasmus concluded by emphasizing the need for improvement ahead of the France and Ireland Tests. He noted that the team's performance against Italy was not perfect, but it was a good starting point. The Springboks will look to build on this win as they prepare to face France and Ireland in their upcoming matches.
Key points
- Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus stresses the need for improvement ahead of the team's Tests against France and Ireland.
- The team's convincing 66-7 win against Italy marks the first of their Nations Championship Northern Series matches.
- Erasmus attributes the team's consistency to their experience and gradual introduction of new players.
