Springboks Target Area That Haunted Them in First 3 Tests Ahead of Baltimore
- The Springboks have identified a recurring problem that could prove crucial when they face New Zealand again
- Rassie Erasmus wants South Africa to regain the control they showed in the closing stages of previous Tests
- The All Blacks are also dealing with major changes as they prepare for Saturday’s series finale
PAY ATTENTION: Mark Briefly News as a preferred source, and our content will appear higher in your Google feed!
Source: Getty Images
The Springboks have turned their attention to an area that repeatedly troubled them in the first three Tests against New Zealand ahead of Saturday’s Baltimore showdown.
South Africa lead the 4-Test Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series 2-1 after their 29-24 victory at Ellis Park on 5 September. However, the All Blacks have finished stronger in the final 10 minutes of every match.
Across those periods, New Zealand have outscored the Springboks 21-3. Erasmus believes that pattern needs to change.
“We didn’t handle the last nine, 10 minutes well, especially in obviously the first Test match. I don’t think we’ve been consistent,” the coach said, according to TimesLIVE.
PAY ATTENTION: You can now search for all your favourite news and topics on Briefly News.
Rassie Erasmus wants greater consistency
The Springboks coach has pointed to more than defensive lapses. He wants his team to maintain their attacking and defensive standards when fatigue sets in.
“The last nine or 10 minutes is normally the time when we were better in the past, and we felt we let that slip a bit the last three times and we want to get better at that,” Erasmus said.
That becomes particularly important in Baltimore because New Zealand must win to level the series 2-2. Erasmus has also highlighted the All Blacks’ attacking ability, noting that their style places significant pressure on South Africa’s scramble defence.
Source: Getty Images
All Blacks arrive with major changes
New Zealand will be without captain Ardie Savea, who suffered a dislocated shoulder in Johannesburg. Luke Jacobson and Quinn Tupaea are also unavailable. Coach Dave Rennie is considering several changes as he attempts to keep the series alive.
For South Africa, the challenge is straightforward: maintain their advantage when the clock enters its final 10 minutes.
2027 World Cup draw could set up another Springboks-All Blacks showdown
Briefly News previously reported that the Springboks and All Blacks could be on course for a blockbuster quarter-final meeting at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
The expanded 24-team tournament has introduced a Round of 16, but the potential pathway could see one of the two rugby giants eliminated in the last eight if both teams top their respective pools and progress through the first knockout round.
The possibility has already sparked debate, with former Springboks coach Nick Mallett describing the draw as “scandalous.”
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
