Springbok assistant coach Matthew Proudfoot has challenged the national team’s players to up their game in Saturday’s Rugby Championship clash against Australia in Brisbane.
The Springboks dropped the ball in their last match in the competition, losing 32-19.
And Proudfoot believes it’s captain Siya Kolisi and his teammates’ execution under pressure that let them down in that encounter.
He explains: “We are looking for more consistency from the team.
“We want a repeat performance from the match in Durban [where SA beat Argentina 34-21].
“Execution across the board [must improve] - whether it’s set phase, breakdown or defence, our continuity wasn’t as good as in Durban.
“We know Argentina were more in our face [in Mendoza] than in Durban, and we expect Aussies to be in our face [as well].”
With Australia having lost their first two matches against the All Blacks, Proudfoot adds: “Two teams looking to bounce back.
“A lot of people have spoken about Australia’s performances, but I don’t think you get defined by your performances against New Zealand.
“This game for both sides is going to be crucial. It’s going to be crucial to see how they respond. It’s going to be tight.”