Matt Williams Praises Springboks' Attacking Evolution, Acknowledges Team's Progress
- Matt Williams, long outspoken against South Africa’s tactics, has commended the team’s attacking evolution under Rassie Erasmus
- Williams warned that Ireland risks falling behind if it fails to respond to the fast-changing strategies in international rugby
- South Africa’s 43-10 win over New Zealand showcased a fluid, running style, with smaller, agile backs complementing their traditional forward strength
CHECK OUT: How to Start Earning with Copywriting in Just 7 Days – Even if You’re a Complete Beginner
Former Scotland coach Matt Williams, long known for his outspoken criticism of South Africa’s tactics, has offered rare praise for the Springboks. He also warned that Ireland risks falling behind if it fails to adapt to the evolving attacking styles in world rugby.
Source: Getty Images
Williams, speaking on Off The Ball on 28 July 2025, reflected on the 2021 tour to South Africa, describing it as one of the worst international rugby spectacles he had ever witnessed.
He said the conduct of both management teams was “disgraceful,” adding that the style of play relied too heavily on kicking across the field.
Williams reported that Rassie Erasmus had been “running on the field as a water carrier” and noted a leaked video criticising referees, which he felt further undermined the spirit of the game. While he had no issue with aggressive play, he said it was not “played in the spirit of rugby.”
DON'T MISS IT: Stay Away From Fake News With Our Short, Free Fact-Checking Course. Join And Get Certified!
Watch below a clip of Springbok's performance against the All Blacks.
Williams praises Springboks
Despite his history as a firm critic, Williams recently acknowledged in The Irish Times that the Springboks’ coaching staff deserves credit for how they are pushing the game forward.
He highlighted that, while South Africa has traditionally relied on kicking and set-pieces, the team has begun integrating a more dynamic running attack, and faster, more agile backs are now being selected. He also praised other Rugby Championship sides for their innovative attacking approaches.
Ireland is at risk if they don’t adapt
Williams emphasised that Ireland must be ready for the upcoming Autumn Internationals, where they will face New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia. He warned that, with attacking tactics evolving rapidly across the Rugby Championship, Ireland could fall behind if they do not adjust.
He pointed to Australia’s recent performances as a striking example, noting dramatic comebacks against the Lions, the Springboks at Ellis Park, and in the dying moments against Argentina in Townsville.
Source: Getty Images
Springboks’ attacking skills on display
The Springboks’ attacking prowess was on full display in their 43-10 demolition of the All Blacks in Wellington, where they scored six tries.
Williams reported that even a team traditionally celebrated for its scrum, maul, and kicking ability has successfully adopted a more fluid running game.
He credited the coaching staff for driving this evolution and recognised the impact of selecting smaller, quicker backs to complement their traditional strengths.
Former Springboks captain criticises Rassie Erasmus
Briefly News previously reported that former Springboks skipper Jean de Villiers has questioned Rassie Erasmus’s tactics, suggesting fans care more about results than attractive rugby.
Speaking on the Off the Ball podcast, the ex-centre with 109 Test caps said the Springboks’ priority should be winning, not necessarily entertaining.
While acknowledging the importance of pleasing supporters, he argued that most South Africans would take victory “even if it’s boring and ugly at times.”
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
