Coach Kevin Foote hailed his team’s defensive effort after the Junior Springboks outmuscled New Zealand to lift the World Rugby U20 Championship title in Italy.
The Junior Boks held off a relentless Baby Blacks onslaught in a nail-biting 23-15 win in Rovigo on Saturday night to be crowned U20 world champions for the first time in 13 years.
“Defence is all about character, and there were moments when New Zealand were right on our line, but we held firm,” said Foote.
“From a coach’s perspective, you can’t ask for more than that. It was a real South African defensive effort and gees that won it for us today.”
The win secured a clean sweep for Foote’s charges, who went unbeaten through the tournament and added their names to the history books alongside the class of 2012.
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Foote, who took charge of the Junior Boks at the end of last year, described his team as a “special group” who showed belief in the biggest moments.
“I looked at the players on the field and saw their body language – they were so present and in the moment. They had such belief, and I’m incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved here in Italy.”
“I love our country and the Springboks, and I love working with this age group,” he added.
“To see these young men grow from training in December to what they’ve achieved now is amazing. Being on this journey with them has been incredibly special, and I’ll never take it for granted.”
Captain Riley Norton said the team had to dig deep in difficult, humid conditions.
“The ball was so slippery, and your fundamentals had to be spot on in these conditions,” said Norton.
“There were a few handling errors due to the incredible humidity, and our jerseys were absolutely drenched in sweat, but I think we handled the conditions well. This win is for everyone who supported us back home.”
The Junior Springboks are due to arrive home on Monday morning, landing in Johannesburg before returning to their respective provincial unions.
Photo: Timothy Rogers/Getty Images
