Springbok backline coach Tony Brown said on Monday that they are expecting Ireland to come out guns blazing in Pretoria on Saturday when the top two teams in the world go head-to-head for the first time since the pool stages of the Rugby World Cup, and predicted that it would be a physical 80-minute battle.
The match marks the Boks’ second Test of the season, they defeated Wales 41-13 at Twickenham in London just over a week ago, and their first in the Castle Lager Incoming Series. Given the intense rivalry between the teams, it is expected to be a nail-biter at a jam-packed Loftus Versfeld.
“Ireland have been playing good rugby for a few years now,” said Brown. “The Springboks have won the last two Rugby World Cups, whereas Ireland would have loved to do better in the World Cups.
“Both teams also believe they are the best in the world, which creates a big build-up to what should be a great Test match.”
Brown, who took over the team’s attack following the departure of Felix Jones to England, was thrilled about the challenge: “This is one of the biggest matches for me. It’s a huge occasion. Loftus Versfeld is an intimidating ground and it’s exciting to face one of the best teams in the world there.”
Brown was pleased with the team’s preparation since their return from London and said the players who joined the group following their club commitments had settled in well.
“The players have been amazing,” said Brown.
“Last week was the first time we had everyone together in camp and they’ve really bought into what we want to do.
“The Springboks are always a tough team to play against because of their physicality and the way they try to dominate the set pieces, so if we can maintain that and evolve with our attack, I think we can do good things.”