The Halfbacks [8]
Fourie Du Preez produced a brilliant performance, while Pollard kept the opposition on their toes by varying his form of attack.
10. Handré Pollard [7]
Rugby365: 7/10
Took the ball to the line on a number of occasions and seemed more confident with Fourie du Preez on his inside. He gave his outside backs good ball but he still needs to work on his kicking game.
Sport24: 7.5/10
Official man of match, even if that was disputed by some in press-box. Still, the youngster showed fearlessness going to the advantage line against the rugged Samoans, and after some early gremlins (like an overcooked kick-off) became increasingly commanding at No 10.
OuGrote: 7/10
With Fourie du Preez taking the pressure off inside him, he produced an assured performance that improved as the game wore on. Kept the Samoans guessing and awarded official MOTM.
09. Fourie du Preez [9.5] Ou Grote Man of the Match
Rugby365: 10/10
His quick service at the breakdown gave the Springbok attack direction and he took a lot of pressure off Handré Pollard’s shoulders with his tactical kicking. A sublime performance by the veteran.
Sport24: 9/10
This writer’s own choice as standout Bok player. How refreshing just to see him complete as many as 73 minutes so effortlessly! Gave the Boks key direction and sound game management at No 9, and his tactical kicking and speedy passing were godsends as well.
OuGrote: 9/10
This is what we’ve been missing – the best player on the pitch. Always there to clear the ball quickly and intelligently from the breakdown, put in some clever tactical kicks and fielded the ball at the back. We need to pray that he stays healthy.