The mindset of the Springboks is good and they are ready to take on Italy this Saturday in Gqeberha.
During a media conference today, Eastern Cape hero Manie Libbok said: “The mindset within this group is good. Since Monday we have worked hard on preparation for this game. The team is now locked into the upcoming fixture and ready to tackle it head-on.
“We know that this is going to be a massive test, but with our preparation this week, the boys are ready and we are prepared to take on the challenge of this weekend.”
Although the competition for the fly-half position in the team is tough, with the likes of Handré Pollard and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Libbok sees it as healthy competition. “I believe it is good that way because it helps us stay motivated and we always push each other in training. I like that. The competition definitely gets the best out of us.”
When analysing the previous clash against Italy, Marco Van Staden said: “They had a big focus on the breakdowns, disrupting our play and slowing our game down. They played really well against us, but we are focused on what we can control going forward.”
Libbok said that his kicking game is something he has been working on more during training, trying to perfect it. “I am happy that I got my kicking game right in the match against the Barbarians. I wish to continue on that high note going into the test series.”
Van Staden said that training sessions have been rigorous, but have been really effective in improving their weak points from the previous game. “We identified the parts of our game that needed improvement and worked on them very well. We prepared each other well for this next game.”
Libbok added how much of an honour it is for him to play with Willie le Roux ahead of his 100th cap for the Springboks. “Willie is an incredible man; a great person to be around. He has been nothing but helpful towards me, helping me with my game from my first match. I am lucky to share the field with him ahead of his 100th cap. We as a team will try by all means to make it a great game for him.”
Kick-off for the test, which will be held in the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, will be at 17:10.
