Rampant 'Boks show how game should be played
Fourie du Preez of the Springboks catches the ball infront of James O'Connor of the Wallabies. Photo: Quinn Rooney, Getty Images
The true value of the Springboks' consummate Tri-Nations triumph in Perth wasn't just to South African rugby.
Sure, their first Tri-Nations trophy since 2004, which they will surely clinch against the Australians in Brisbane next Saturday, will be a landmark achievement, especially after their Lions series win. But sometimes there are even more important things than trophies.
The manner in which the Wallabies were put to the sword represented proper fulfilment of the talents of this Springbok side.
Undeniably, they are the best team in world rugby but until Perth on Saturday, they have rarely offered the world the leadership to be expected of such an outstanding side.
World rugby desperately needs leadership, a demonstration by its most talented players that it remains potentially a fantastic, vibrant and entertaining game, full of pace, power and movement when played properly.
The dreary kicking approach which had dominated the South African game until this match gave no sort of example at all to those looking to the best side and hoping for a style to follow. How different it was at Subiaco Oval.
SUPERIOR
South Africa are infinitely superior to Australia, and at last they produced the all-encompassing game style to prove it. Three tries in the first 32 minutes, a brace for Bryan Habana who again looked a considerable threat.
So different was the Boks' approach this time that in one moment in the second half they came running out of defence, deep in their own 22, moved the ball down the entire back-line and made huge territorial gain by keeping the ball alive. Before, they would have just kicked without thinking.
To see both wings, Habana and JP Pietersen, set free to attack, to see the ball moved down the back line was hugely encouraging. Players were suddenly seeking space rather than contact, running at the weaker inside shoulder and freeing the ball up in the tackle to ensure continuity.
The Springboks carved out a 22-3 lead within half an hour, a gap the mistake-ridden Australians were never likely to close.
Two tries were scored in the first 10 minutes by Fourie du Preez and Jaque Fourie. Habana scored either side of half-time and the Boks were in total control. With only five minutes left, South Africa led 32-13 and only a late flurry of points by the Wallabies as the Springboks eased off, gave the scoreboard any semblance of respectability.
Playing in this open style with their pace and power up front providing a terrific attacking platform for the backs, the South Africans would have been too good for any side in the world.
Peter de Villiers' men can confirm the point by beating Australia again next Saturday in a similar style.
- Peter Bills
