‘Bonus point is key, but win comes first,’ says Springboks’ Damian Willemse
The Springboks are targeting the win first, and then will worry about bonus points and points difference.
Springboks' Damian Willemse emphasized that securing a bonus point in their upcoming match against Italy in Turin is crucial for the team's ambition to top their Nations Championship South section pool and qualify for the Finals Weekend. However, Willemse stressed that the primary goal remains winning the game. After facing France and Ireland in the following weeks, the Springboks face a challenging schedule, with Italy being the easier of the upcoming matches.
Despite Italy's ranking at 11th in the world and missing key players due to injury, the Springboks, who entered the match as the top-ranked team, are favored. With both New Zealand and the Springboks currently tied on 15 points, picking up a bonus point becomes particularly important. Willemse noted that the team understands the tight nature of the competition and the need to secure a significant win, but the main focus is on performing well and achieving victory.
This end-of-year tour marks the first under the new competition structure for the Springboks, adding an exciting element to the matches. Willemse stated that the team is focused on the Italy game, recognizing the strength of their opponent and the need to maintain concentration.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
