Junior Boks coach Kevin Foote praised his side’s clinical start to the Junior World Championship, but insists there is still plenty of work to do.
The defending champions ran in 16 tries to demolish Uruguay 104-7 in Tbilisi on Saturday, having led 50-0 at half-time. Winger Jordan Steenkamp and flank Risima Khosa both bagged hat-tricks.
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Foote was delighted to finally see months of preparation translate into a performance on the field.
“It’s awesome to finally get going after a long period of preparation. The players showed great intent from the start, and it’s pleasing to begin the tournament with a strong performance.”
While the scoreline suggested complete dominance, Foote credited Uruguay for testing the Junior Boks in key areas.
“Uruguay were very competitive at the breakdown and also challenged us in the lineouts,” he said.
“The conditions weren’t easy with the wind, but I thought we adapted well, kept the ball in hand and played with good energy and purpose.
“There were plenty of strong performances and a number of players really put their hands up for selection. That’s exactly what you want in a competition like this, where the whole squad will be needed.”
The Junior Boks conceded their only try with the clock in the red, but Foote praised Uruguay for continuing to fight until the end.
“Full credit to Uruguay for finishing the game the way they did,” he said. “Scoring at the end shows their determination and spirit, and that’s something we expected from them.”
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Attention has already shifted to South Africa’s second pool match against hosts Georgia, who pushed Wales all the way before losing 25-24 in their tournament opener.
“We have a very good squad, and we’ll give other players opportunities in the next game,” said Foote.
“The focus is on continuing to build and improve. You can feel the energy and passion in Georgia already. They’ll be hurting after that loss and will come back strongly. We know they’ll bring a big physical challenge, so we’ll need to be ready for that.”
Photo: @SanzarTRC/X
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Junior Boks coach Kevin Foote praised his side’s clinical start to the Junior World Championship, but insists there is still plenty of work to do.
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