If it was the Springbok forwards who rumbled against England, it was Damian Willemse among the backs who brought the thunder. CLINTON VAN DER BERG reports.
Playing his 50th Test, Willemse showed every facet of his extravagant talents at Ellis Park. He tackled heroically, he was outstanding under the high ball and he kicked with the precision of a surgeon.
Watching the fearless fullback, it was hard to select his finest moment.
Was it his outrageous 50-22 kick in the 26th minute that drew a roar from the baying crowd?
A 50-22 in his 50th Test
Damian Willemse is running the show from Fullback
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Or was it his try-saving tackle on Cadan Murley, also in the first half?
Or his ridiculous confidence under the high ball from start to finish?
What of the moment Tommy Freeman clattered into him hard – and high – only for Willemse to defiantly protect the ball and dust himself off?
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Willemse has come to embody all that is good about the Boks: the grit, the fearlessness, the bloody mindedness.
Siya Kolisi spoke in the week about how the fullback plays as he once played touch rugby as a young boy – with carefree abandon, beautiful feet and a natural swagger.
“Everyone knew that Gaza was a special rugby player since a young age at school.
We’ve seen what he achieved at school. One thing that I like about him is the way he has just worked on it, very professional. Even after training sessions, Gaza will stay for extras. He’s very humble with all the talent he has.
“Whenever he gets a ball, I also don’t know where he’s going. I don’t think he knows what he’s doing. It’s really cool to see that he hasn’t lost that.”
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Kolisi played no part in Saturday’s match, but he’d have been proud of his roommate’s contribution.
Willemse’s gifts go beyond his mere talents. It’s his attitude, and ability, to impose himself on big games through sheer will.
He seeks pressure, he thrives amid danger and he revels in creating magic.
With an outsize personality to match, it makes him a compelling figure – and a 50-cap wonder who typifies the very best of the Springboks.
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
The post 50-cap Gaza lights up the night appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
If it was the Springbok forwards who rumbled against England, it was Damian Willemse among the backs who brought the thunder.
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