The double South African world champions had the last word at Twickenham on Saturday against England (20-29), as part of the autumn test matches.
TOPS
Cheslin Kolbe, chirurgical
What a match from the supersonic South African winger! The world champion scores a double (22nd, 63rd) in this clash, won after a tough fight by the South Africans against England at Twickenham (20-29). The former RC Toulon player showed off his terrible speed to pierce the English rearguard each time, helpless in the face of the Springbok's swift thrusts. This is evidenced by his three crossings made in this meeting. The former Stade Toulousain player proves, at 31, that he remains one of the Boks' lethal weapons and that he has lost none of his fiery legs.
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Siya Colise, Herculean
Against Scotland last week, Eben Etzebeth was monstrous. This time, it was Siya Kolisi who terrorized the XV de la Rose. The third row and captain of the Springboks made his law reign this Saturday, with 14 successful tackles including three dominant tackles. Boss.
South Africa indestructible
Even jostled and heckled, the Boks seem invincible. This team, led by its rough forwards, knows perfectly how to turn its back when under pressure to better punish its opponent. Rassie Erasmus' men show such a margin and such a hold on other nations that one can wonder if a solution currently exists to bring down this double world champion team. After winning in Edinburgh last weekend, the Springboks got the better of England and, after winning the Rugby Championship, confirmed their domination of world rugby. Implacable.
FLOPS
The English (too) clumsy
At the end of the match, the players of the XV de la Rose, authors of a magnificent fight, could have tickled the South Africans a little more if they had been a little more efficient, especially on the touchline. A few minutes before the final whistle, Steve Borthwick's men had a good opportunity to get closer to the Boks on the score but their penalty throw proved not to be straight. A gross mistake for a stupidly wasted cartridge. At this moment of the match, against such a team, it is unforgiving.
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The faded XV of the Rose
England are (clearly) not in great shape. The Whites were simply swept aside and sent back to their studies during this series of autumn test matches. The Twickenham residents have three defeats in as many matches, against the All Blacks (22-24), Australia (37-42) and therefore, South Africa. Worse, Steve Borthwick's players have not won since… January 22, 2024. The XV de la Rose is (for the moment) no longer invited to the table of world rugby leaders.
