France attack coach Patrick Arlettaz says Les Bleus’ determination to beat the Springboks burns as fiercely as ever – even if revenge isn’t the driving force behind Saturday’s blockbuster Test at Stade de France.
Speaking to Rugbyrama ahead of the clash with the double world champions, Arlettaz admitted that the heartbreaking one-point World Cup quarter-final defeat to South Africa, still lingers in the French psyche.
“There was sadness, frustration and maybe a sense of injustice,” he said. “It’s still a scar for everyone, myself included, but one we have to build on to become better.”
MORE: France suffer setback before Bok clash
While the 2023 loss won’t define this week’s rematch, Arlettaz conceded that “the desire to beat them is very strong – absolutely.”
With several frontline players sidelined, France have been forced to juggle combinations, but Arlettaz insisted they have no fear of being outmuscled or outjumped.
“We believe we can match them physically. We don’t have the same preparation time, but that only fuels our hunger. The Springboks kick between 15 and 17 high balls per match – that’s more than scrums, and about the same as lineouts,” said Arlettaz. “We can’t ignore that. We’ve spent real time on it.”
Arlettaz, renowned for his attacking philosophy, also acknowledged that while France won’t mirror the Boks’ tactical kicking, they’ll need to use it as part of their arsenal to shift momentum.
ALSO: France seek Bok revenge after ‘stab to heart’
Photo: Timothy Rogers/Getty Images
The post ‘Desire to beat them is very strong’ appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
France attack coach Patrick Arlettaz says Les Bleus’ determination to beat the Springboks burns as fiercely as ever.
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