The Blitzbokke need to get back to basics to improve their performances as the holders look to renew their World Rugby Sevens Series challenge.
Coach Neil Powell’s manne head to Sydney this weekend after finishing fourth in New Zealand last weekend to move up to fourth in the overall standings.
But their displays were littered with too many mistakes before they were hammered by eventual winners Fiji in the Cup semifinals.
It’s time to learn from those errors and the Blitzboks have to look at themselves and take responsibility in order to up their game, says Werner Kok.
The Boks’ blond warrior says: “It was disappointing how we played at times. Some basics were not adhered to and that is something you cannot do.
LOST: Seabelo Senatla is playing XVs now. Photo: BACKPAGEPIX
“It is about the squad, but it will start with each individual taking ownership of the mistakes and then going out there to rectify it and make sure that it does not happen again.
“We need to forget about Hamilton and start afresh here in Sydney.
“We have to clear the minds, warm the hearts and make sure South Africa is proud of us at the end of the weekend. We have a week to fix things and we want to use the time to do that.”
Kok is aware that the squad have lost some huge names in the last two seasons, with Seabelo Senatla leaving the setup last term and seeing Rosko Specman, Ruhan Nel and Dylan Sage all switch to the 15-man game.
He admits that losing that quality and experience has seen standards drop, but the Western Province Currie Cup winger believes that the current squad and new faces have the right attitude to get their season back on track.
Kok explains: “There are less experienced guys in the squad this time around, but that does not change our attitude of making the country proud.
“The quality of guys such as Rosko Specman, Ruhan Nel and Dylan Sage were undisputed and you don’t replace players like them overnight. It does not have to be a deterrent to the younger guys though.
“You train hard, hoping to get the chance once an experienced player is not there anymore. That is the opportunity for the next guy.”