Neither Libbok or Willemse are in the same class as Pollard.
I backed France to win the RWC because without Pollard the Springboks have a major issue at #10.
Willemse has failed to show at #10 and Libbok's post kicks are a complete mess plus he is not what the "Experts" professed him to be.
Not writing him off as he was thrown in at the deep end due to Pollard's injuries.
Weak link in the Springbok team at this stage.
Pollard is the player who is #1 to retaining the RWC.
Ja, I get your reservations about Manie...he should have had 15 tests below the belt by now, then we would have had a better understanding of his potential...the few chances he had in the Bok jumper are not enough to determine his worth either way...even after the weekend's match ..
I have a feeling we haven't see the last of Pollard for this RWC. There will be some smoke and mirrors in juggling the RWC teams and he will probably be a beneficiary of it.
Agree DbD.
Libbok came good, apparently Swys said he just needed to adjust his angle of approach to the ball. That said, I would definitely want pollard in the team, whether he is starting or on the bench.
But Libbok touch finders were sublime. How many times did he get the boks with in 10 meters if not closer. I was happy with his performance. He also stood up well in defence.
Pollard is only 28, so we’ll so a lot more of him. If Sexton can play at 38, sure pollard can play for another 8 years, Morne Steyn was better at 35 and could have made this World Cup at 38. Still in great condition
I would suggest that Pollard start so that when the forwards are still fresh and holding play to the opponents half you need a kicker that can convert kicks from their half of the field.
Nothing like having 6 or more points on the board in the first 20 minutes or so.
Agree Libbok had a decent game but he missed kicks that a seasoned internation flyhalf would have made.
Like I stated he was thrown in at the deep end and has not at this stage found his place in international games.
This is BIG TIME RWC and each and every score matters.
