Junior Boks coach Kevin Foote praised his side after a 29-29 draw with New Zealand in the U20 Rugby Championship on Saturday.
South Africa fought back from 15-8 down to hold a 22-15 lead at half-time at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
The reigning U20 world champions then scored a bonus-point try early in the second half to clinch the title and extend their advantage to 29-15, but the Baby Blacks hit back with two converted tries and missed a late penalty goal that would have snatched victory.
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“We had moments where things didn’t go our way, but what stood out was the fight in the group and the resilience to keep coming back,” said Foote after the match played in front of an 18,100 crowd. “That’s what you need in games like this, especially on occasions like these.”
Foote felt the Junior Boks showed clear development in their physicality and kicking game compared to previous encounters with New Zealand.
“Twelve months ago, we came here and didn’t kick particularly well. This time our kicking was mature, contestable, and it allowed us to play in the right areas of the field. There’s been real growth in our game.”
However, Foote admitted breakdown efficiency and ball security were areas where they could be better.
“We probably turned over the ball too easily at times, and that’s something we’ll definitely work on. Against a team like New Zealand, you get punished if you’re not clinical.”
Captain Riley Norton, who had another solid game at No 5 lock, echoed his coach’s sentiments, particularly around the tense closing stages.
“Those last 10 minutes were hectic. Momentum kept swinging and that’s where you learn the most,” Norton said. “We made a few simple errors and lost shape at the breakdown, and that gave them chances.”
Despite that, Norton stressed the value of the tournament experience.
“These are exactly the kind of pressure situations we’ll face at a Junior World Championship. You have to stay composed, control what you can, and trust your systems.”
Both Foote and Norton agreed that while the draw was bittersweet, the broader objective had been achieved.
“We’ve won the tournament, we’ve tested our depth, and we’ve learned a lot about ourselves,” said Foote. “This experience will serve us well going forward.”
Photo: Richard Huggard/Gallo Images
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Junior Boks coach Kevin Foote praised his side after a 29-29 draw with New Zealand in the U20 Rugby Championship on Saturday.
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