Willie le Roux, talented as he is, is nearing the magical century mark of tests. He will, however, not go down as one of South Africa’s greatest fullbacks.
His bossy demeanor on the field disqualifies him for the title as a great. And from time to time he gets that strange hiccup in concentration that spoils an otherwise good erformance.
On Saturday it was his decision, with runners next to him who had an open passage to the tryline, to go it alone that cost his side a certain seven points as Le Roux strived for the try-honour for himself.
Against better opposition that would/could have been costly.
■ At the online press conference from Perth on Monday, veteran winger Makazole Mapimpi and versatile forward Jan-Hendrik Wessels were the two ‘guests’ – indication that they could be in the team for Saturday’s second test against an obviously struggling Wallabies unit.
Duane Vermeulen, the former Springbok No 8 who is now part of the Bok management team, said at the meeting that the aim was to use all 33 squad players on tour.
It was a necessary step to ensure that every member of the squad remains on top form to provide coverage should there be any injuries – and of course to be ready for the next phase of the Super Rugby Championship.
And importantly, it provides the players with game time as the tournament becomes tougher.
