The problem with a Springbok game against a tier two team is that every bit of praise dished out has to be accompanied by the caveat “but it’s only Portugal”.

You can only play what is in front of you though, and the Springboks did that really well in Bloemfontein. With seven new caps and several others at an embryonic stage of their international careers, they could easily have struggled much more than they did after losing André Esterhuizen early to a red card...

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.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.