Coach Kevin Foote praised the Junior Springboks’ maturity and depth after a fightback win over England sent them into Saturday’s Junior World Championship final in Tbilisi.
The defending champions will face France in the decider of the U20 tournament after storming back from a half-time deficit to beat England 53-37 on Monday.
England led 20-12 at the break in a physical semi-final, but the Junior Boks found another gear to progress and continue their title defence.
“At half-time, it was really about us looking after the ball a little better and making sure we could keep applying pressure on England consistently,” Foote said.
“The conditions weren’t easy and perhaps didn’t suit the style of rugby we always want to play, but what pleased us most was the maturity the players showed.”
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The forward pack again laid the platform, with Foote crediting their leadership and workload.
“The forwards have worked incredibly hard since this group first came together.
“This was our fourth game in three weeks, so everyone is feeling it physically. The fact that they keep going and keep pushing is very impressive.”
The bench once more proved decisive, with replacements maintaining intensity throughout.
“We’ve spoken throughout the tournament about the importance of the entire squad,” Foote said.
“Some players have had to wait patiently for their opportunities, but when they come on, they make a real impact. We have a very talented squad with great depth.”
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Saturday’s final brings a daunting test in the form of Six Nations champions France, who beat New Zealand 26-22 in the other semi-final.
“France have been outstanding,” Foote added. “Against New Zealand they worked hard, stayed in the fight right until the end and showed tremendous spirit. They’re going to be a huge challenge.
“For us, it’s about recovering well, enjoying the opportunity to spend another week together as a group, and then looking forward to the final.”
Having played all their pool and knockout matches at Avchala Stadium, the Junior Boks will contest the final at the Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, with kick-off set for 6:30pm.
Photo: @SAJuniorRugby/X
The post Happy Foote looking forward to U20 decider appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Coach Kevin Foote praised the Junior Springboks’ maturity and depth after a fightback win over England sent them into Saturday’s Junior World Championship decider in Tbilisi.
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