ATHLONE STADIUM – The Springbok Women celebrated with great jubilation after producing a spirited and determined performance to level the international series against New Zealand’s Black Ferns XV.
Swys de Bruin’s charges bounced back in emphatic fashion from last weekend’s disappointment, delivering a dominant performance to overpower the Black Ferns XV with a convincing 41-24 victory at Athlone Stadium on Saturday.
The home side showcased their attacking prowess by crossing the try line seven times, securing a convincing win that allowed them to level the two-match international friendly series between the two nations.
Tries from left winger Ayanda Malinga, fullback Byrhandre Dolf, flyhalf Libbie Janse van Rensburg, prop Yonela Ngxingolo, hooker Lindelwa Gwala, as well as forwards Lerato Makua and Luchell Hanekom, proved decisive as the Springbok Women sealed a commanding victory over the Black Ferns XV.
De Bruin praised the team’s dedication and hard work during the week’s training sessions, highlighting how the players remained committed to the game plan and successfully corrected the mistakes that cost them in the previous encounter.
“We always just look at the game, but there’s some significant stuff that happens in the week that normally inspires them to play like this,” said de Bruin.
“I think that’s what happened today. So one or two things we’ve still got to sort out with our defence wide, which is a small amount of work on.
“But it was wonderful to see the great work our coaches did this week at training, and now it came to fruition on the pitch.”
De Bruin added that it was uplifting to witness a significant step up from the players who returned to the starting lineup this weekend.
He noted that their performance not only elevated the team’s energy but also played a crucial role in boosting overall morale and confidence.
“Having players back gave us a boost,” de Bruin added.
“But then saying that, I think we’re at this point now that all 32 players understand one another, and the coaches understand them.
“So it doesn’t matter who goes on and off at what stage. If a player is slightly off form, they all back it that we’re bringing the player on form.
“They feel comfortable now with one another, and that’s what we wanted.”
Image: @WomenBoks/Twitter.
