The backline Defense was a mess in the Assie test and not fully used by the Aussies. In the case of the AB test the problem was with the outside center and the wings going out of line when defending. A better defending backline would be D Allende at 12, Willemse at 13 and replacement of both or maybe one wing. i Still like Kolbe on the wing - but we need at least one oher wing who are good in bot defense and attack. I doubt whether Kriel would make the grade.
Willemse at 13 when Mo’unga gassed him on the outside…no thanks. And inside him the Dud Allende!
So Jessie is the best other 13 we have but he'll only ever play in games against lesser opposition.
Sounds like a great building plan to me.
I don't get it.
Willemse was not gassed he was flat footed and made a poor defensive call
Remember him hauling in Clarke the AB winger last year and stopping him from scoring
Plenty of pace shown there
I wonder if AM is being blamed for the poor defence of the backline. It seems the outside center organises the Rasnaber defence.
No ways Am is far ahead of the pack, it’s a no brainer that he will always start the big games
Kriel will start against the Argies as he has had no game time and it was a call made before the RC started
It’s that simple
Am is a great defensive organiser and his rugby brain sets him apart. Invariably makes the right call, has that uncanny ability to make a step or two more than he should have
A great 13 and vital for the Boks
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How does this plodder get onto the pitch? It is not clear if is just for organising the defence or what.
AM is going to be rested or be put on the bench.
According to this except, the Boks are starting with the same backline- with just 2 changes.
So that means Willemse is starting when we all know that is a mistake.
Esteruizen at the very least better be on the bench, with a 4/3 split.
The other expected change to the backline will see Jesse Kriel start in his 60th Test match.
Kriel was part of the group that was sent to New Zealand in advance of the Test, but was left out of the matchday squad and has yet to see any minutes in this Rugby Championship.
The 29-year-old will start at outside centre, replacing Lukhanyo Am, who has started in both Bok Tests this season.