They were distracted by the last match
Springboks strive to strike consistency
Tuesday 11 November 2014 19:42
Simon Burke
Springboks are on a four-match European Tour
The Springboks are paying the price for pouring all their energy and focus into beating New Zealand. The team admits that they are also struggling to get to grips with the conditions and style of play in the northern hemisphere.
The Boks are preparing for England at Twickenham in West London on Saturday - the second stop on their four-match European Tour.
In Dublin against Ireland, the Boks showed all the signs of a side that had already accomplished all they needed to this year.
Coming off the back of a momentous win over the All Blacks, South Africa was clearly unprepared for a spirited Irish side.
They do admit this.
Springbok eighthman Duane Vermeulen says, "I think after beating New Zealand, you kind of feel like this is where we are supposed to be. But, you've got to pitch up every week. You can’t beat the World No 1 and then think you are invincible."
Much like Ireland, England will give the Boks another stern test.
Dangerous from all parts of the pitch, it’s the English forwards, in particular, that are giving the Bok pack sleepless nights.
Vermeulen says, "Our championship and Super Rugby is a hell of a lot different to what the rugby is up here. Up here, it’s a more forward orientated game. We actually love playing with our forwards. It’s just a lot different."
It will be necessary to master that difference, if this tour, which is essentially a recce before the World Cup, is to be deemed a worthwhile exercise.
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