The Springbok Women opened their two-Test series against the USA with a hard-fought 34-21 victory at Ellis Park in Johannesburg on Saturday, delivering an encouraging performance in front of their home supporters.
South Africa made an impressive start, using their physicality and dominance at the set piece to put the visitors under pressure. The hosts converted their opportunities into points and took a deserved lead into halftime after producing a disciplined first-half display.
The USA responded with renewed intensity after the break, scoring important tries to reduce the deficit and test the Springbok Women’s resolve. However, the South Africans remained composed in the closing stages, producing crucial defensive stops and adding valuable points to secure the victory.
Springbok Women head coach Swys de Bruin praised her team’s effort while acknowledging there is still room for improvement.
We showed character today, physical presence of the girls in the first half made me proud but I think we can recycle the ball a bit better.
She added that the match provided valuable lessons as the team continues building towards its major international objectives.
USA head coach Jack Hanratty credited South Africa for their physical performance but praised her players for fighting until the final whistle.
They put us under pressure at the set piece, but I’m proud of the way our players fought back.
The result gives South Africa a 1-0 lead in the series and valuable confidence ahead of the second Test. While the Springbok Women will look to improve their discipline and execution, Saturday’s performance demonstrated the progress the side continues to make on the international stage.
Images: Springboks Women (Instagram)