Coach Swys de Bruin and captain Nolusindiso Booi hailed the Springbok Women’s first-ever World Cup playoffs qualification after their historic win over Italy in York on Sunday.
The 29-24 victory – their first in four attempts against the Italians – also lifts the Boks into the top 10 of the World Rugby rankings for the first time.
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De Bruin praised his players’ fight and the tactical input of his staff as South Africa twice held off Italy’s comeback.
“I am so proud of everyone, this was really a team effort, not only from all here in England, but also our support structures back home, and this performance justifies the belief SA Rugby had in us,” he said, adding that Italy showed their Six Nations pedigree but his team wanted the win more.
“We had a plan on how to beat Italy and credit to my coaches, as it worked to a tee. Our first phase helped us to score some tries, while we also outplayed them in the backs with some delightful tries.
“We improved on every positive statistic out there and we are only two rounds into this tournament. It is such a relief and one can only thank God that it worked as planned.”
Booi said the victory underlined the team’s progress and belief.
“The performance was magic, we never stopped fighting, knowing what was at stake. This win was for all who came before us, those who paved the way. Look at where we started and look where we are now – in the top 10 of the world game.”
For the 39-year-old skipper, playing in her fourth World Cup, the moment was deeply personal.
“I will not play rugby again at this level after this tournament and to now have won two pool games in a row and qualify for the quarter-finals is just such a humble feeling of gratitude. We worked so hard for this and now we finally reap some rewards.”
The Boks now return to Northampton to prepare for their final pool clash against unbeaten France next Sunday.
Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images
