Rassie Erasmus says the Springboks should have adjusted better to Wales’ kicking game in their 20-11 loss in Cardiff on Saturday.
The Boks slumped to their fourth successive loss against Wales – and fifth in six matches – to end the season with a 50% win record.
Despite a good start in Cardiff, the Boks were put under pressure as Wales scored two converted tries in a defining 10-minute period in the first half, before Dan Biggar came on in the second to help the hosts close the game out by pinning the visitors back with some well-placed kicks.
Erasmus offered no excuses for his side’s performance at the Millennium Stadium.
‘Today was perhaps the first time that I felt we were outplayed after we were always in with a chance in all our other games,’ he said.
‘They came with no surprises and we knew exactly what they were going to do, but I felt we didn’t adjust our plan like we should have. Wales were good with their kicking game and solid in defence, and although we created opportunities our finishing and discipline let us down.’
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Bok captain Siya Kolisi was equally honest in his appraisal of the match, admitting the team need to be more consistent if they are to continue growing.
‘They were smart each time we got into their half and we let ourselves down with ill-discipline by giving away penalties, which allowed them to exit from their half,’ Kolisi said. ‘All credit to Wales because they had a great plan. It worked out well for them.
‘We are making progress and although we are nowhere near where we want to be, we are heading in the right direction,’ Kolisi added.
‘However, we have to become more consistent because you cannot win two or three matches and then lose the next few – you have to pitch up for every Test and that’s what we will have to strive for.’
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Photo: Warren Little/Getty Images
