JOHANNESBURG – Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus addressed the media in Paris on Monday and answered a few questions about his team.
On what was good against England?
We only gave away six penalties so our discipline was good. The other positive is that we now also know what we have in our two young nines (Ivan van Zyl and Embrose Papier). I also thought S’bu Nkosi in well again after being out (with an injury). We’re building nice depth at Test level.
On that tackle by Owen Farrell?
It’s up to World Rugby what happens. They will give us feedback. But you can’t change the referee’s decision; we must live with it. But if those kinds of things are in the law, then it’s something everyone must be able to do. If it’s acceptable, then we must all do it; if it’s not, then we can’t do it.
On the France team, good enough to win World Cup?
It’s difficult to judge a team after they have played against New Zealand (earlier this year). They’re the best team in the world that can give you 50 points and this last weekend a B-team smashed Japan. I think any team ranked three to seven can beat the other on any day, but New Zealand and Ireland are clearly one and two. I can only tell you what I think of France once we’ve played against them.
On what he has changed for the good in Bok team?
The players under-stand better how to tactically play against different teams; they’re adapting well. Our execution is still letting us down though and we’re not finishing the opportunities we’re creating. The big thing is to build caps and experience before next year’s World Cup.