By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Image@SAJuniorRugby.
Junior Springbok head coach Kevin Foote paid tribute to his team’s resilience, depth and unbreakable bond after South Africa were crowned Junior World Championship winners.
The SA U20s defeated France 16-5 after leading 6-0 at the halfway mark of this enthralling championship decider to successfully defend the title they won last year in Italy.
The Junior Boks overcame fierce French resistance in a pulsating final to lift their second title in a row, with Foote describing the triumph as an incredible proud moment for the team and the country.
“It means everything to us; it means everything to South Africa,” said Foote after the final.
“South Africa is a very special place and we are very lucky to represent our people. Right now, we’re just feeling incredibly grateful for the opportunity.”
The final was delayed by a lightning storm before kick-off, while France’s physical approach ensured the Junior Boks were pushed to the limit throughout the contest.
Foote credited his players for remaining calm under pressure and continuing to believe, even when momentum swung towards the French side.
“We knew France were big, physical and they just kept coming at us,” said the Junior Bok coach.
“We had to soak up a lot of pressure, but the story of this team has been that they never give up. We always felt that if we got our opportunity, we’d take it.”
Foote said the team’s leadership and defensive effort were among the most pleasing aspects of the victory, while he also credited the replacements for making a great impact: “The starting players had absorbed so much pressure and the fresh legs brought energy at a crucial time. That’s been a strength of this squad all season.”