It was a second-half comeback that saved the day against France, but the Junior Springboks know that they can't afford another slow start in Monday's Under-20 semi-final against England in Manchester.
France led 24-18 at halftime on Wednesday in the decisive Pool C game at the Under-20 Championship, but the SA juniors roared back in the final quarter to emerge with a 40-31 victory.
But England topped the overall log after the pool stages, and was the only team to secure two bonus points for scoring four tries as they remained unbeaten against Scotland and Italy, and they completed their qualifying games with a 17-13 win over Australia on Wednesday.
The hosts appear to be a well-drilled side and will be looking to go all the way to the title in Manchester, starting with Monday's semi-final against South Africa (8.45pm kickoff SA time).
The Junior Boks battled in their set-pieces in particular, with the lineouts messy and the scrum not always on a solid base. Both hookers, Jan-Henning Campher and substitute Tango Balekile, missed their jumpers on occasion and will need to sharpen up considerably in that department if coach Dawie Theron's team hope to reach the final.
"We are working hard and realise we need a big improvement in our lineouts and defence, in particular," assistant coach Nazeem Adams said on Saturday."England are a strong team. They are very structured, they have a good set-piece and their defence is solid. In fact, they have only conceded two tries in the competition so far. They will also be playing at home, which will motivate them significantly. So, we will face a tough challenge."
The key for the South African pack will be to provide front-foot ball for their brilliant backline, with fullback Curwin Bosch the Man-of-the-Match against France for scoring a try, three conversions and three penalties.
His combination with flyhalf Manie Libbok will be vital for Theron's team on attack, as they are able to create space for the likes of centre and captain Jeremy Ward and wings Edwill van der Merwe and S'busiso Nkosi.
Theron will also have to make a tough selection at scrumhalf, where Garsfontein High matric pupil Embrose Papier of the Bulls and Southern Kings Super Rugby No 9 James Hall are competing for a spot. Papier impressed with his broken play and quick service from the base against France, and scored a try, while Hall also made a strong impact in the last quarter and put Libbok over for a crucial try in the 61st minute.Theron is set to name his team on Sunday. "The players are ready. They know it is not going to be easy, but they are aware that if they believe in their abilities and play to their potential, we have a good chance to win this match."
@IndyCapeSport - Independent Media