VIDEO: Springboks upbeat despite defeat
JOBURG - Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer was full of praise for his team, despite losing their second game in as many weeks.
Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer was full of praise for his team despite losing their second game in as many weeks in front of a sell-out crowd at Emirates Airline Park on 25 July.
The Springboks failed to hold their own going down to the All Blacks 27-20 in the Rugby Championship.
The game began with the All Blacks’ trademark haka in an electrifying atmosphere, while Springbok fans chanted ‘Bokke, Bokke’ in support of the men in green and gold.
WATCH: The All Blacks performing the Haka:
The Springboks led by Schalk Burger in the absence of Victor Matfield who missed out due to a hamstring injury, dominated most of the game but failed to capitalise on the opportunities they created.
Meyer was confident despite the loss. “Nobody gave us a chance after Super Rugby. Playing against the best team in the world, we played brilliant attacking rugby I thought at times,” said Meyer speaking at the post match conference.
The defeat came at a cost with a few Springbok players facing an anxious wait for the assessment of their injuries. Jannie du Plessis injured his knee and Francois Louw his shoulder. Vincent Koch and Warren Whitely might also have broken ribs.
New Zealand coach Steve Hansen admitted that his team was a bit flat. “We looked a bit sluggish at times but there was no lack of desire,” he said.
LISTEN: Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer speaking at the post match conference:
https://soundcloud.com/user528046609/boks
Scorers:
South Africa – Tries: Willie le Roux, Jesse Kriel. Conversions: Handre Pollard (2). Penalties: Pollard (2).
New Zealand – Tries: Ben Smith, Dane Coles, Richie McCaw. Conversions: Lima Sopoaga (3), Penalties (2).
WATCH: Schalk Burger, Springbok captain, speaking to the media after the game:
