Rugby: SA Player Ratings - Scotland Test

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Post on Nov 11, 2024

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Springboks Fall Short: SA Player Ratings - Scotland Test

The Springboks' much-anticipated return to international rugby saw them fall short against a spirited Scotland side in their opening test of the 2023 season. Despite a dominant first half, the Boks faltered in the second, allowing the Scots to snatch a 30-29 victory. Here’s a breakdown of the South African player ratings:

Forwards:

• Steven Kitshoff (7/10): Kitshoff was a force in the scrum and put in a powerful performance. He consistently won his own ball and provided solid platform for the Boks.
• Trevor Nyakane (6/10): While not as dominant as Kitshoff, Nyakane held his own in the scrum and contributed well in the loose.
• Frans Malherbe (6/10): Malherbe had a solid game, but lacked his usual aggression and dominance in the scrum.
• Eben Etzebeth (7/10): The veteran lock put in a typically strong showing, both in the lineouts and in the loose. He led the charge with his trademark intensity and was a constant threat.
• Lood de Jager (6/10): De Jager had a mixed game, struggling at times to make an impact. However, he did secure a crucial lineout in the second half.
• Franco Mostert (6/10): Mostert was solid in the loose, making several important tackles and carries. He also contributed well in the lineouts.
• Jasper Wiese (7/10): Wiese was a real workhorse for the Boks, consistently making impactful carries and tackles. His powerful runs were a key factor in the Boks' early dominance.
• Duane Vermeulen (6/10): Vermeulen had a solid performance, bringing his usual experience and leadership to the team. He played a key role in controlling the tempo of the game.
• Kwagga Smith (6/10): Smith was a constant threat in the loose, making several powerful runs and tackles. He was also impactful in the breakdown.

Backs:

• Handré Pollard (6/10): Pollard had a mixed game, struggling at times with his kicking accuracy. He did manage to slot some crucial penalties and was a key player in the Boks' attacking plays.
• Damian Willemse (7/10): Willemse was a constant threat with ball in hand, making several impactful runs and creating opportunities for his teammates. He was also solid in defence.
• Jesse Kriel (6/10): Kriel was a steady performer, making solid tackles and contributing well in the attack. He lacked the spark that he has shown in the past.
• Makazole Mapimpi (6/10): Mapimpi was dangerous on the wing, but struggled to break through the Scottish defence. He made some crucial tackles and ran the ball hard.
• Kurt-Lee Arendse (5/10): Arendse had a disappointing game, making a few crucial errors and failing to make a significant impact.
• Canan Moodie (5/10): Moodie was brought on as a substitute and showed glimpses of his potential, making a few strong runs. However, he was unable to change the momentum of the game.

Overall:

The Springboks had a strong first half, dominating the Scottish scrum and lineouts. However, their performance in the second half was underwhelming. The lack of control over the game's tempo and the missed opportunities allowed Scotland to take control and secure a deserved victory.

While there were individual performances worthy of note, the Springboks need to improve their overall cohesion and decision-making to compete at the highest level. They will need to address their shortcomings before their next test against Scotland, with the series still up for grabs.