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Springboks: 'This week will probably tell us where we are as a team'
By PA
South Africa skipper Siya Kolisi believes that cup final experiences build character as the Springboks prepare for a Test series decider against Wales.
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Cape Town’s DHL Stadium hosts a winner-takes-all third game on Saturday after South Africa triumphed in Pretoria and Wales levelled things up with an historic success in Bloemfontein last weekend.
The 13-12 victory was Wales’ first over the world champion Springboks in South Africa, setting up an intriguing finale.
“We have been in these situations before, and it builds character,” Kolisi said.
“The coaches want us to be in situations such as these, so this is nothing new for us. But I am sure Wales have been in these situations, too.
“Wales are a tough team – they don’t stop playing for 80 minutes – but we are looking forward to this weekend.
“We looked at last week’s game and where they were strong, and we have been working on that and on improving our game.”
Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber has recalled eight of the 2019 World Cup-winning team – Kolisi included – for the Wales showdown.
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It is also South Africa’s last game before they open their Rugby Championship campaign against New Zealand on August 6.
Assistant coach Mzwandile Stick said: “We are still in a building phase to the World Cup (next year).
“Last week, we were not happy with the result. We had several opportunities which could have allowed us to put them away, but we didn’t use them.
“This week will probably tell us where we are as a team. We have no doubt it is going to be another big tussle, but we will do everything we can to win.
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“Wales have a similar style of play, and they can feed off scraps and create something from nothing, so we are aware of the challenge that lies ahead.”
The third Test marks Springboks lock Eben Etzebeth’s 100th cap – he is the seventh South African to reach that landmark – with hooker Bongi Mbonambi making his 50th Test match appearance.
Kolisi added: “This is a special occasion for Eben and his family.
“It is special to achieve what he has, and to be the youngest player to achieve it makes it even more remarkable, so we are happy for him and for Bongi.
“We want to win this match for them, but more importantly for the Springboks and the people of South Africa.”
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The writer here ignores the fact that, following on from not taking the penalty kick, the All Blacks did manage to score a try a few minutes later. Not directly from the penalty awarded, but it is speculation to say that had they opted to take the koi they would have won. Even if they kicked it, which was no guarantee, they would still be trailing and would have had to start again at half-way.
Go to commentsI would be surprised if Sales Opoku Fordjour and Northampton’s Tommy Freeman are not in the team, Anthony Watson is also one that could go on the wing. One thing I must say is that the front 3 will get destroyed against a team like South Africa.
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