Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu should be celebrated for everything he gets right rather than judged against the extraordinary standards he has set himself, writes MARK KEOHANE.
Writing for the Sunday Times, Keohane has rejected criticism of Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s performances for the Springboks, arguing that the flyhalf’s spectacular 37-point display against Argentina in Durban last year has distorted perceptions of what constitutes a good Test from the 24-year-old.
“He has never been ordinary for the Springboks,” he writes.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu started all four Tests against the All Blacks and finished the series having been on the winning side in six of his seven career appearances against them.
Keohane believes his influence grew as the series progressed, with his physicality, line kicking and ability to carry into contact complementing an increasingly mature approach to game management.
His versatility also allowed Rassie Erasmus to shift him to fullback and introduce Manie Libbok at flyhalf later in matches – a tactical move Keohane says should be viewed as a strength rather than criticism of Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s performance at No 10.
“He is special and South Africans should be fortunate he wears Springboks green and gold.”
Keohane was particularly impressed by Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s performance relative to All Blacks flyhalf Ruben Love, who started the series strongly at Ellis Park before having less influence in Cape Town and at FNB Stadium and being dropped for the Baltimore Test.
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For Keohane, Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s willingness to back himself means mistakes will inevitably accompany the spectacular moments, but his contribution should be assessed by the totality of his game.
“My focus is on what he gets right, and he gets so much right,” Keohane concludes.
Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images
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Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu should be celebrated for everything he gets right rather than judged against the extraordinary standards he has set himself, writes @mark_keohane
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