The Junior Springboks go into Monday evening's World Rugby U20 Championship semi-final against England in Georgia carrying clear lessons from a pool stage that tested their composure, with captain Siphosethu Mnebelele identifying a fast start as the priority against a physical English side.
The Junior Boks secured their semi-final place through what Mnebelele described as a de facto knockout match against Wales. "We knew that if we lost against Wales, our route to the playoffs would be in serious jeopardy, so we approached it like a knockout game," he said. "There were some nerves early on, but we are fortunate to have players who understand their roles and stay focused on their responsibilities."
Those nerves against Wales have sharpened the team's thinking heading into the last four. "We need to start well from the opening whistle, execute our roles and not allow England to gain momentum," said Mnebelele. "If we concentrate on doing our jobs to the best of our abilities from the kickoff, we'll give ourselves the best chance of success."
Utility back Luan Giliomee, a Springbok Sevens international, returns at fullback after missing the Wales match and brings versatility across the backline having featured at scrumhalf, flyhalf and fullback for the SA U20s this season. "The coaches always have a plan for the team and it's important that every player buys into that plan," said Giliomee. "Whether it's fullback or another position, I'm happy to contribute wherever I can."
A win on Monday would give the Junior Boks ten consecutive victories at the Junior World Championship — one short of New Zealand's record of 11 straight between 2016 and 2018.
Kickoff in Tbilisi is at 18h30 SA time, live on SuperSport.