The Springboks should still be buzzing after claiming a stunning win over France at the Stade de France, but full attention will need to quickly shift to ensuring they do not drop any standards when they kick off against Italy this Saturday.
Rassie Erasmus’ team faced Italy twice during the Incoming Series in South Africa in July and won both matches (42-24 and 45-0), although it should be a far more competitive affair at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, especially considering the Azzurri are just coming off an epic win over Australia.
The Springboks’ game against Italy kicks off at 14:40 (SA time) on Saturday
The South African team travelled from Paris to Italy on Sunday, and prop Wilco Louw said they expected to face a charged-up Italian outfit at home.
“It (the game against France) was a big win, but this week Italy will be up and ready to face us, so we will start preparing for that,” said Louw.
“As always, they’ll definitely come at us. They are a good team, and they have quality scrums and mauls, while they also like to throw the ball around, so it will be a big challenge and tough game next week.”
Reflecting on the match-up against France, Louw shared Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus and captain Siya Kolisi’s sentiments that it was a brave team effort.
“France are a very good side,” said Louw.
“Obviously, we didn’t think we’d win by that margin, but a win is a win. The boys grafted out there with 14 men for half of the match, and we’re really proud of the effort. It was an incredible game to be part of.
“Everyone just stayed focused on our task after the red card, and the boys stepped it up, especially the forwards, in the second half to get momentum in the mauls.”
Remaining Tests this year
- 15 November: vs Italy, Turin. Kick off: 14:40
- 22 November: vs Ireland, Dublin. Kick off: 19:40.
- 29 November: vs Wales, Cardiff. Kick off: 17:10.
