THE FINAL WHISTLE
MARK KEOHANE: Winning is rightly everything when it comes to rugby fans
Critique, like adulation, comes with professional sport
Critique of the Springboks should not be confused with disrespect of the players, their passion for the game or their on-field effort. Critique, like adulation, comes with professional sport. People invest emotional energy and money to support the Springboks, and it’s because of these people there is such passion about the game in SA. The South African rugby fan has every right to have an expectation of the Springboks and this fan has every right to want to invest in a team that wins or is expected to win, especially when they are playing in SA. The Springbok management, individually and as a unit, is understandably protective of the players, but they are also far too close to the action to be rational observers. See Brendan Venter’s emotional defence of his players in such a light. Venter, who has been lauded for his effect on the Springboks as a technical coaching specialist, took to social media to condemn those who dared criticise the Springboks after the 27-all draw against Aus...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.