Springboks end the year with 50% win-loss record

The Boks weren't able end to year with the win. Photo: @WelshRugbyUnion via Twitter

The Boks weren't able end to year with the win. Photo: @WelshRugbyUnion via Twitter

Published Nov 25, 2018

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CARDIFF – Bok coach Rassie Erasmus has acknowledged that his team were comprehensively outplayed in their 20-11 defeat to Wales in Cardiff on Saturday.

It's a result that saw the Boks end the 2018 season with a 50% win-loss record, while finishing the end of year tour with two wins from four games.

Although the Boks came into the Test on the back of wins over France and Scotland, they only managed to cross for one try against Wales, with ill-discipline and a lack of penetration on attack letting them down.

Erasmus said they had known what to expect from Wales, but lamented the Boks' failure to cope with the home team's kicking game.

“Today (Saturday) was perhaps the first time that I felt we were outplayed after we were always in with a chance in all our other games,” he commented.

“They came with no surprises and we knew exactly what they were going to do, but I felt we didn’t adjust our plan as we should have. Wales were good with their kicking game and solid in defence and although we created opportunities our finishing and discipline let us down,” added Erasmus.

It was the Boks' fourth successive loss against Wales, and captain Siya Kolisi said it had certainly proved to be their most challenging match of the tour.

“All of us knew that this was going to be our most difficult match of the tour and they made it tough for us,” said Kolisi.

“They were smart each time we got into their half and we let ourselves down with ill-discipline by giving away penalties, which allowed them to exit from their half. All credit to Wales because they had a great plan it worked out well for them.”

Several Springboks will stay behind to play for the Barbarians next week in London against Argentina, while the Baabaas will also be coached by Erasmus. 

African News Agency (ANA)

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