Springboks raise concerns over certain All Blacks tactics ahead of series opener
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Tactics.
The Springboks have raised concerns over some of the All Blacks’ tactics ahead of Saturday’s eagerly anticipated series opener at Ellis Park.
Assistant coach Felix Jones revealed that the Springbok coaching staff had received feedback from the Stormers, Sharks and Bulls following their respective matches against New Zealand during the provincial leg of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour.
While much of that feedback reinforced what South Africa had already identified, Jones revealed that a couple of consistent themes had emerged.
“A couple of things caught the franchises out, and a couple of themes were consistent across the feedback,” Jones said.
“One was around the breakdown, where they experienced tucked shoulders going in, which the franchises weren’t happy with, and a reversed-arm non-wrapping action.”
Jones also highlighted concerns around the driving maul after the South African franchises created several opportunities close to the All Blacks line but struggled to convert them into points.
“The other was that the franchises were actually quite happy with the opportunities they created, getting into scoring positions around 10m out, with multiple lineout opportunities there, but they were frustrated they couldn’t score from the driving maul.”
Jones then elaborated on what had caused that frustration.
“It’s tough when there’s someone pulling or trying to lift a leg or going off their feet.”
The Springboks assistant coach stressed that South Africa have no issue with the physicality New Zealand are bringing under Dave Rennie, but wants to ensure that battle remains within the laws.
“We’re all for the physical side of the game, as everyone is aware. We just want it to be within the laws.”
Jones is familiar with Rennie’s teams from previous coaching encounters and believes the All Blacks will bring plenty of physicality to Ellis Park.
“We’ve coached against Dave Rennie with Glasgow and with Australia, and the word ‘brutal’ follows his coaching,” Jones added.
The comments add another layer to the build-up after the two camps have already exchanged views over referees and the tempo of matches in South Africa.
The Springboks and All Blacks will finally begin the Test portion of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry at Ellis Park on Saturday.
