The Springboks were heroic, gutsy and courageous en route to conquering the French in Paris on Saturday evening.
The Springboks defeated France 32-17 in Paris on Saturday evening to extend their lead at the top of the latest World Rugby rankings.
There were a number of big performances that helped inspire this famous Bok victory. However, one or two stars were far from their best.
SUPERB SPRINGBOKS: PLAYERS WHO FIRED
Malcolm Marx – 8.5/10
Marx was razor sharp at lineout time and a menace at the breakdown. All his lineout throw-ins found their target. Furthermore, he crucially slowed down French ball. The Bok hooker won a couple of key turnovers and also provided a try assist.
Cobus Reinach – 8/10
Reinach’s moment of individual brilliance resulted in the Springboks’ first try. His snipe from the base and chip and chase got the Boks back into the contest. His decision-making was top tier. Reinach knew when to clear for touch, kick contestables and when to run and pass. He has had a huge year so far.
Andre Esterhuizen – 8/10
Esterhuizen came on for De Allende in the 47th minute and he brought some much-needed momentum and firepower. He was utilised as a hybrid centre-flank and scored a crucial try off the back of a rolling maul to cap off a big display by the towering star. He carried powerfully throughout the Test to get the Boks on the front foot.
WHO FLOPPED FOR THE BOKS AGAINST FRANCE
Boan Venter: 4/10
Venter had his least impressive performance in a Bok jersey to date. He struggled around the park and was replaced in a tactical substitution made by Rassie Erasmus in the first half (in the 31st minute). It was always going to be tough filling in for the in-form and world class, Ox Nche.
Lood de Jager: 5/10
The lanky Bok lock went for an HIA (Head Injury Assessment) in the 10th minute. Thankfully, he passed it and returned to the field of play. He stole a French lineout in the Boks 22m
However, things went from bad to worse for de Jager. Lood was red-carded towards the end of the first half after a controversial decision was made against him for a high hit on French fullback Thomas Romas.
Therefore, there is little to no doubt that Erasmus will drop Venter and likely start Gerhard Steenekamp next week. Meanwhile, Lood is expected to face a lengthy suspension and will likely be be replaced by Ruan Nortje or Franco Mostert going forward.
