Wilco Louw was still buzzing on Sunday from the team’s 32-17 victory against France at Stade de France in the Castle Lager Outgoing Tour, but the big Springbok prop immediately turned his attention to Saturday’s clash against Italy in Turin, saying it would be another big battle.
The Boks faced Italy twice during the Castle Lager Incoming Series in South Africa in July and won both matches (42-24 and 45-0), but he expected the team to face a charged-up Italian outfit at home, especially following their 26-19 victory against Australia on Saturday.
“It (the game against France) was a big win, but next week Italy will be up and ready to face us, so we will start preparing for that,” said Louw.
“As always, they’ll definitely come at us. They are a good team, and they have quality scrums and mauls, while they also like to throw the ball around, so it will be a big challenge and tough game next week.”
Reflecting on the match-up against France, Louw shared Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus and captain Siya Kolisi’s sentiments that it was a brave team effort.
“France are a very good side,” said Louw.
“Obviously, we didn’t think we’d win by that margin, but a win is a win. The boys grafted out there with 14 men for half of the match, and we’re really proud of the effort. It was an incredible game to be part of.
“Everyone just stayed focused on our task after the red card, and the boys stepped it up, especially the forwards, in the second half to get momentum in the mauls.”
Commenting on the hostile French crowd, Louw said: “We said before the game that we would just focus on ourselves, especially with the noise during the warm-up. It’s an incredible experience going out at the stadium with everyone singing and cheering, even though it’s not always for you.”
Louw also had special words for Kolisi, who became only the ninth Springbok player in history to earn 100 Tests, and Erasmus, who guided the team in his 50th match as head coach.
“Rassie is an incredible coach – the way he gets everyone up and focused on the task is amazing,” said Louw.
“Both he and Siya are incredible human beings. Siya is such a servant to the team and our whole nation. He’s a great player and leader, and we all admire him for the person he is and for what he’s been through in his life.
“He plays with his heart on his sleeve, and he’s a captain who leads by example. We’re really proud of both of them, and hopefully there will be many more.”
The Springboks travelled from Paris to Italy on Sunday and will begin their on-field preparations for the match at the Allianz Stadium, Turin, on Monday.