Dunn: Experience handed Boks win
Very few people mentioned how well the Pumas, (currently 12th in world rankings), adapted to the conditions and this was my biggest issue. A lot was expected from this match in Salta, and all that was really delivered is more serious questions on selections and game plan not to mention sloppy execution.
The Ugly
We were absolutely hammered in the set-piece. We were pushed back in the scrums a record 8 times! The lineouts are still a lottery. Our defensive effort was extremely limp and insipid.
Much respect to Juan for his contribution to Bok rugby, however, his performance was below par. Bakkies, Guthro, De Allende, Eben, were all well below average and need to be re-evaluated. Jannie and Bizzie are exhausted and need to be rested.
Overall we really struggled with the basics and if for 1 minute our coaching team think that we can win Rugby Championship with this kind of performance, they are deluded. How is an average performance even marginally acceptable??
The Good
Ruan Pienaar showed flashes of brilliance, however, questions need to be asked as to why he is outstanding for Ulster and average for the Boks.
Marcell Coetzee was outstanding and really made a tremendous impact off the bench, defensively as well as on attack. Handre Pollard kicked well but overall was average. Duane, Willie and Flo were all excellent and helped to redeem the Boks. A truly outstanding performance by Los Pumas and in the end the Boks had enough luck, experience and pride to grab a last gasp win.
(File Photo:Gallo Images)
Twitter - @DawnDunnRugby