Scots are no one-trick ponies, warns Bok forwards guru
Matt Proudfoot, himself a former Scottish international, believes South Africa shouldn't be fooled by the perception that their weekend opponents only play running rugby.
Matt Proudfoot (Forward Coach) of South Africa during the South African national rugby team media conference at Radisson Blue Hotel, 80 High Street on November 13, 2018 in Scotland, Ireland. (Photo by Steve Haag/Gallo Images)
Springbok assistant coach Matt Proudfoot has described Scotland as a formidable side who will present the improving Springboks with a difficult contest at Murrayfield on Saturday.
“We’re improving as a pack and up here in the northern hemisphere it is important to gain ascendancy from where we can launch attacks and put the opposition under pressure,” he said.
The Scots have built a formidable record at home in the past two seasons, with their only loss from nine home Tests coming against New Zealand last November.
“They’re a very good side and Gregor (Townsend, Scottish coach) has done a fantastic job with the team since he took over,” said Proudfoot.
“The challenge at the breakdown and the contact point is always crucial in Test match rugby. The difference compared to the French game is that Scotland are probably a lot better technically in the defensive contact situations, while the French were very physical.”
Proudfoot also lauded some of the other Scottish strengths: “Their continuity play and their ability to apply a kicking game, which allow them to counter off the back of that, are some other strong points.
“They are also a very disciplined side who are able to defend for long phases, so you don’t get to break them down easily. That means you must have a lot of patience against them.”
Meanwhile, the team management confirmed that a decision on whether to recall Faf de Klerk for next Saturday’s final Test of the tour against Wales in Cardiff, will only be made after the Scotland match.
The scrumhalf was released back to his English club, Sale Sharks, for this weekend’ English Premiership action.
Furthermore, a call on the fitness of Eben Etzebeth will only be made later in the week.
The experienced lock picked up a foot injury against England two weeks ago.
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