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What Eben Etzebeth makes of the Scotland threat
By Ian Cameron
Springbok captain Eben Etzebeth anticipates a tough 80-minute clash against Scotland for their Autumn Nations Series Test in Edinburgh, saying ‘games are not won on paper’.
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Despite South Africa’s higher world ranking and strong record against Scotland, the 129-cap veteran insists they are not underestimating their opponents.
“They are a good team,” said Etzebeth. “They had a few impressive results in the Six Nations and so have their teams in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, so they are improving every year. This match is going to be a big challenge for us in all areas of the game.
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“With their kicking game and pack, they’ll be up to face us. They also have a few South Africans in their ranks who will give them an idea of what to expect from us.”
“We consider them as one of the top nations in world rugby, just as we see the likes of Ireland and New Zealand, so we know it will be a physical encounter, and over and above that, it’s always tough playing at Murrayfield,” added Etzebeth.
“Personally, it is one of my favourite grounds, but it’s going to be an epic encounter, and we’re looking forward to it.”
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus chose a seven-forward replacements bench and Eben Etzebeth agreed the forward pack would be crucial to the match’s outcome.
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“On paper we have a good bench, but games are not won on paper,” said Etzebeth. “Scotland also have a quality bench who’ll also want to make a big impact, so we don’t read too much into that sentiment (that this is one of the best benches named yet in rugby).”
“Everything starts with the forwards except for the restarts, and most matches these days are won and lost up front. We have great respect for Scotland as a team and their forward pack, so we have to be at our best to beat them.”
Dry conditions are expected, but assistant coach Mzwandile Stick says the Springboks are ready to kick change plans on short notice.
“From the information we’ve received it’s going to be a dry day, but we experienced some wet conditions in Jersey, so the weather won’t change how we want to play.” said Stick. “We know Scotland will do everything they can to stop us from implementing our plan, but we’ve prepared well and hopefully we can stick to our plans on the day.”
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Watch the highly acclaimed five-part documentary Chasing the Sun 2, chronicling the journey of the Springboks as they strive to successfully defend the Rugby World Cup, free on RugbyPass TV (*unavailable in Africa)
