Springbok Player Ratings vs Samoa

The Locks [8]

05. Victor Matfield [7.5]

Rugby365: 8/10
Made his presence felt in the line-out with a few steals and ensured his team got possession on their own throw in. He was also the anchor in a powerful Springbok driving maul.

Sport24: 7.5/10
Some critics felt he should be demoted for this one: instead he got up for it superbly. Constant bastion of reliability in first half, either at kick-off collections or the lineout, where he caused mayhem on Samoan throw. Rousing applause as he left field on 55 minutes, sound job done. Had ice pack on left leg afterwards – hopefully just a 38-year-old’s lot?

OuGrote: 7.5/10
Absolutely dominated the lineouts on both Bok and Samoan throw-ins, poached some valuable ball, and controlled the driving mauls.

04. Eben Etzebeth [8]

Rugby365: 8/10
His aggression and physicality in the tackle was just what his team needed in the tight exchanges. He also carried the ball into contact well.

Sport24: 8/10
Absolutely oozed aggression, right from the kick-off when he went clattering in and won a penalty straight away. Maintained lustre (but composure also) at coalface, and aided Matfield in ensuring lineout angst for the opposition. Bits of deft handwork as well.

OuGrote: 8.5/10
One of the best players on the park – his many strong runs got the Boks over the advantage line and rattled the Samoan opposition.