Springbok loose forward Elrigh Louw described South Africa's 31-27 victory against New Zealand in Johannesburg last week as his biggest career highlight and said the team looked forward to facing their arch-rivals again this weekend in Cape Town, despite the opposition traditionally boasting a strong support base in the Westen Cape.
Louw, who was one of the impact players on Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus’ forward-heavy replacements bench for the clash, made a strong statement as the Boks fought their way back from 27-17 down to clinch the victory, which marked only the third time ever that they defeated the All Blacks three times in a row – and the player described this as one of his most special moments yet in rugby.
“Personally, it was a massive dream come true to face New Zealand and also to do so at Emirates Airline Park. At this stage it has to rank as my biggest rugby highlight, and especially the way we came back from behind to get the win,” said Louw.
Commenting on the team’s fantastic comeback late in the game, he said: “We were prepared to play for the full 80 minutes, and every player on the bench delivered a good effort, so I don’t think it was a case of the All Blacks being tired, it was rather a matter of us playing until the final whistle, and I’m happy that the guys went all the way.”
Louw, who is in the selection mix once again to face the All Blacks at the DHL Stadium this weekend, said the players were psyched up for the match, and was not bothered by the fact that the All Blacks have enjoyed fantastic support in the province in the past.
“Cape Town is renowned for their support for the All Blacks, but the people’s support for us also means a lot, so I don’t think it will be a big factor in in our motivation for the match and how we perform," he said.
The versatile loose forward spoke highly of the competition for places in the squad and the Springbok team culture, especially in terms of how the young players have been drafted into the system, and said he enjoyed of being part of such a special environment.
“The competition in the squad is healthy, and I really believe we are building something special,” said Louw.
“I enjoy Jasper (Wiese) and the way he plays, and a player like Pieter-Steph du Toit is great and the manner in which he is willing to play any position and never gives up, which certainly sets a good example for the young players.”
Asked what contributed to the younger guys settling into the team so well against top opposition, Louw said: “I think it’s the culture in the team that makes it so simple and safe for any player to just step into the system. If you do your job and put in the effort, the entire team and the coaches back you to do the job.”
The Boks will continue their preparations on Tuesday and will wrap up the main match detail on Wednesday, before enjoying a well-deserved off-day on Thursday. Erasmus will announce his match-day squad for the Test on Thursday morning, with the team set to wrap up their on-field preparations on Friday at their traditional captain’s run.
