Junior Springbok coach Kevin Foote praised the team for their fighting spirit and not letting their heads drop in their Rugby Championship U20 opening round victory over Argentina, after the South Americans led by 10 points shortly after half-time in Gqeberha on Thursday.
The SA U20's had to work very hard at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium to start their campaign with a 36-25 victory over the Pumitas. The hosts were 20-15 down at the break, and following a try by Argentina shortly after the restart, the visitors took a 10-point lead, but the Junior Boks fought back with three converted tries without conceding another point to leave the 9,000-strong crowd very happy.
Afterwards, Foote praised his team’s resilience and leadership, acknowledging the initial nerves and the challenge of adapting to slippery field conditions.
“One of our biggest strengths is our leadership and after half-time, when they scored quickly, the guys didn’t drop their heads,” said Foote.
“The guys adapted really well after half-time and a lot of credit has to go to the leadership group and their ability to maintain confidence and belief, and go back to what we knew was going to work, playing a territory-based game and putting pressure on their opponents in their own half.”
The Junior Bok coach also said the crowd played a big part and expressed his gratitude for the enthusiastic support from the local crowd.
“The atmosphere was electric, with the fans deeply involved and backing the team,” said Foote.
“The warm welcome at the hotel and airport, complete with a marimba band, showcased the city's hunger and passion for hosting big rugby events. So, we are grateful to the people of Gqeberha for the amazing support they gave to us.”
SA U20 captain Riley Norton, who was one of the try-scorers, echoed Foote's sentiments, expressing his appreciation for the support in the stands: “The crowd played their part and we could hear them and hear their support for us. It was something special to play in such an atmosphere.”
Looking ahead to their next game against Australia on Tuesday, Foote identified a number of areas for improvement.
“Argentina are renowned for their defensive set piece and for us things perhaps did not go our way in the lineouts and scrums,” said Foote.
“However, when we got the ball over the 15m line, we mauled quite well to put them under pressure. I also thought our team’s defensive efforts and their ability to scramble effectively during line breaks were impressive.”
Junior Bok No 8 Wandile Mlaba had a solid game and said the team prepared well coming into the tournament, learning from every training camp they had: “While it was not a perfect display, there were numerous positives to build on in the next game.”
The Junior Boks' next assignment is against Australia on Tuesday, 6 May at the same venue, where the game will start at 16h10. The first game in the second round of action is between New Zealand and Argentina (14h00).