Springboks Plots Secret Plan to Reclaim Line-Out Supremacy Against Wallabies
The Springboks are gearing up for a crucial rematch against the Wallabies on Saturday at DHL Stadium, determined to right the wrongs of their Rugby Championship opener. Last weekend at Ellis Park, South Africa’s line-out, traditionally their attacking stronghold, failed to deliver, leaving the Boks vulnerable and struggling to assert dominance.
Line-Out Woes Cost the Boks
The line-out is often the launching pad for the Springboks’ most effective attacking strategies, powering their mauls and opening up opportunities for inventive strike plays. But against a shrewd Australian side, the Boks were outmanoeuvred, completing only 68.8% of their throws. Competing locks repeatedly lost possession, stifling key attacking options and neutralising the famed maul.
During a blistering first 20 minutes, André Esterhuizen and the loose forwards exploited quick line-out strikes to gain momentum. However, when this platform faltered, the Wallabies capitalised, conserving energy and maintaining strength in the final quarter, a factor that proved decisive in their 38-22 victory.
Fixing the Momentum
The Springboks’ struggles extended beyond the line-out. Playing from behind forced them into reactive collisions, resulting in 17 turnovers. The coaching staff and players now face the task of recalibrating their approach ahead of Saturday’s showdown.
Ruan Nortje, who will call line-outs from the No. 5 position, explained that the squad has studied the errors and formulated plans to reignite their most potent weapon. “At the end of the day, we as locks make the plan together, not just the guys on the field,” Nortje told the media. “We know we are better than what we dished up on Saturday. Australia came with different looks than in previous matches, and it may have caught us offside. This week has been about focusing on our plans and executing to the best of our abilities.”
Countering Australia’s Quick Throws
One tactic the Wallabies employed effectively was the quick, often skewed throw-ins, exploiting the Boks’ preparation window. Recent law adjustments allow for these quick line-outs if the opposition does not contest immediately, giving Australia an edge. “They did well to try and catch us off guard by throwing before we could compete,” said Nortje.
A Revamped Forward Pack
In a tactical shake-up, the Boks will start with Ruan Nortje alongside RG Snyman, marking their first Test appearance together. Veteran locks Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager will provide impact off the bench, a clear indication that South Africa plans to reclaim dominance in the line-out and maul.
“It’s my first time starting with RG, and I’m really excited to play alongside him,” Nortje said. “We can feed off each other a lot. When you put on that jersey, it’s just about working hard and emptying the tank.”
With a refreshed forward combination and a detailed plan to counter Australian tricks, the Springboks are ready to turn their Ellis Park disappointment into a dominant performance under the shadow of Table Mountain. Expect a physically intense contest where line-out supremacy could define the outcome.
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