The South African national rugby team, known as the Springboks, concluded their year with an impressive victory over Wales in Cardiff. The Boks emerged victorious with a scoreline of 45-12, showcasing their dominance on the field. This win marked the end of a successful season for the team, with 11 wins out of 13 matches and an unbeaten record on their northern hemisphere tour for the first time since 2013.
Led by captain Siyas Kolisi, the Springboks displayed a stellar performance, scoring seven tries compared to Wales’ two. The team’s success was a result of collective effort and individual brilliance, as reflected in the player ratings by The Citizen.
Aphelele Fassi received a rating of 8 for his standout performance, including a well-executed try. Cheslin Kolbe earned a 7 despite facing challenges in the match. Jesse Kriel and Damian de Allende both received a rating of 7 for their consistent contributions on the field.
Kurt-Lee Arendse stood out with a rating of 9 for his exceptional display, making crucial passes and scoring a remarkable try. Jordan Hendrikse also impressed with an 8 rating, showcasing his skills in various aspects of the game.
The forward pack delivered solid performances, with players like Jasper Wiese, Elrigh Louw, and Franco Mostert earning ratings of 7 and above. Siya Kolisi, the team captain, received a rating of 7 for his leadership and active involvement in the game.
Eben Etzebeth’s early try and powerful runs earned him a rating of 6 before leaving the field due to injury. Wilco Louw, Johan Grobbelaar, and Thomas du Toit received ratings of 8 and above for their contributions in the scrums and loose play.
The bench players also made significant contributions to the team’s success, with Malcolm Marx, Gerhard Steenekamp, and Vincent Koch showcasing their skills. Marco van Staden, RG Snyman, Cameron Hanekom, Cobus Reinach, and Handre Pollard all played crucial roles in maintaining the team’s momentum throughout the match.
Overall, the Springboks’ victory over Wales was a fitting end to a successful season, highlighting their strength and depth as a team. With such a dominant performance, the Boks have set the stage for future success in the world of rugby.
