From Pollard’s precision to breakdown dominance, an in-depth look at the decisions and adjustments that turned Cape Town into a Springbok victory.
South Africa turned in a disciplined and controlled performance to overcome a spirited Australian fightback, securing their first win of the 2025 Rugby Championship at a rain-soaked Cape Town Stadium on Saturday.
After last week’s setback in Johannesburg, the Springboks opted for a more pragmatic approach under fly-half Handré Pollard, who swapped places with Manie Libbok in the starting XV. The move paid dividends, with Pollard’s precise kicking game keeping Australia under constant pressure and enabling South Africa to control the tempo.
The scoreboard reflected a competitive contest. Tries from Canan Moodie, Kwagga Smith, and Eben Etzebeth were matched by Corey Toole, Max Jorgensen, and Brandon Paenga-Amosa for the Wallabies. However, it was Pollard’s flawless execution off the tee — six from six — that ultimately separated the sides. In contrast, James O’Connor’s day with the boot was costly for Australia, as missed penalties and a conversion left 11 points unclaimed.
Control and Composure Win the Day
South Africa’s strategy was clear: return to basics. Pollard acted as the team’s anchor, combining smart territorial kicking with precise aerial calls. Cheslin Kolbe, as dynamic as ever, complemented this approach with his trademark leaping runs and relentless support play. The Springboks’ breakdown work was far superior to last week’s display, with Ox Nche, Kwagga Smith, and Marco van Staden disrupting the Wallabies’ ball and creating opportunities across the park.
Unlike in Johannesburg, South Africa avoided speculative plays in the midfield that could have handed Australia momentum. Instead, they executed a controlled game plan, blending power with intelligence and refusing to allow the Wallabies’ back-row to dominate. This return to pragmatic, physical, and methodical rugby marked a significant improvement and reminded fans why Rassie Erasmus’ approach has been so successful over the years.
Looking Ahead
For the Springboks, the win provides momentum as they prepare to face the All Blacks at Eden Park in Auckland in a fortnight. While the Wallabies pushed hard in the second half, their defeat offers lessons as they regroup ahead of hosting Los Pumas in Townsville on September 6.
Ultimately, South Africa will take satisfaction in a win earned through control, discipline, and smart rugby. In the challenging conditions of Cape Town, points on the board mattered more than style, and the Springboks delivered exactly what was required.
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