Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus believes that knowing the Wales’ intricate style of rugby well will definitely be an advantage for the Springboks heading into their Rugby World Cup semifinal clash this weekend.
Having coached in the European leagues for more than five years before returning to the helm of the Springboks, Erasmus says that his in-depth knowledge of Welsh teams will come in handy.
Having lost to Wales twice since taking over as the head coach of the Springboks, Erasmus remains confident that the Boks should have the edge over them.
The Springboks on Sunday overcame a spirited Japanese side to book their place in the next round of the tournament with a well-deserved 26-3 denying the hosts any tries in the process.
The Boks have scored the most points of the tournament thus far and they have only conceded three tries in five games to date. Erasmus emphasised the importance of their defense.
The Boks went into the half time break leading 11-3 with Japan sniffing the upset following an early injury and a yellow card to pro forward Beast Mtawarira in the first half.
Erasmus says they expected everything Japan threw at them and they are happy they could neutralise it all in the second half.
Having gone into the game with a four-two split amongst the forwards and the backs, Boks captain Siya Kolisi lauded the substitutes bench for their impact when they came on. He adds that there are no egos about it either. – Report by Thando Gqamane
