Did South Africa's coaches blow it against Ireland?

[@rupertmoon78]

Worth bearing this in mind. Kolisi is still coming back from a long term injury and this is only his third game back. Etzebeth was also injured in the Scotland game and was thus a doubtful starter for this test too. Those could be valid reasons for pulling them both early.

[@Bcharles1200]

That’s more than a theory, they are managing kolisi and etzebeth, both had concerns around injury in the first two games, they had to go off. This is a pool game.

[@Titanium351]

Those are valid points

[@davidpearn2484]

That's history, concentrate on new Zealand

[@michaelodonnell824]

When you pick Seven forwards four days before the match, you PLAN on withdrawing seven starting forwards, irrespective of whether they are having a great match or not... Moreover, despite having a replacement on the bench, Ireland CHOSE to play Andrew Porter for over 74 minutes... I have a feeling that Erasmus & co, plan when and who they will replace long before kickoff...

[@jakestone954]

Dan Sheehan will be back we win the line outs from now on

[@mikecl8803]

Great chat, but as a springbok supporter, we got a long road ahead of us, I'm tired of the what ifs and only ifs, Ireland beat us on the day, they an awesome team that will not be easy to win against, both Ireland and South Africa have still got to go a long way before we start thinking of finals, the road is not an easy one, and given that there are other teams that can win on any given day, I'm still nervous, hell who knows springboks may not make it out the pool stages, there are quite a few very good teams that can become heroes on any given day. One game at a time, my focus is Tonga as a supporter, and depending what happens between Ireland and Scotland, and what happens in the other groups, then my focus as a supporter is France then will take it one game at a time, this world cup is full of teams that could surprise anyone on any different game day. But I'm fed up with mainly my countryman saying we lost because we missed the kicks, hope the realise the whole dynamic of game would have changed, from a kick off to positional play, getting one kick over, would that result in is getting the other opportunities, or would it change the game that Ireland got more opportunities. My boks are awesome, that's my team, but so are many other teams.

[@mikecl8803]

We had an awesome team in 2015 and we lost to Japan. Who knows what will happen on the day, best teams in the world won't win if your not mentally prepared, I think the boks are, but also I think Ireland are too. You don't lose 2 games in 28 matches playing the best teams and medium teams is the world if you not up to it mentally, so give respect where it's due.

[@washerdryer3466]

Well said.

[@salomonligthelm14]

Yeah mate. Agreed, a measured take from a Bok support! I love that! Bok supporter here too! Long road ahead…every game ahead a massive challenge!

[@noahdaniels7103]

😂😂😂😂 Ireland was cheating with ref go see replay with how that game was referred. .. we still going to take cause everybody hate us but we are going to use that to get us that cup

[@weximan1]

Well said

[@victorsnyder9293]

I love how Matt hates South Africa but he cant really say it 😂but it shows. Go bokke 🇿🇦

[@pretoriarider7462]

Your probably one off those who piss and moan aboit the government but when someone else hate sa,then u have a lot to say😄🤗😇

[@victorsnyder9293]

@@pretoriarider7462 Brave assumption, I don’t do politics + in comparison to other countries with similar challenges our government and society has made a lot of progress Proud South African here 🇿🇦

[@pretoriarider7462]

@@victorsnyder9293 if u say so,30 years ago no loadshedding,30 years ago no high ceime rate,30 years ago saa one of the top 5 airlines i dont think they exiat now,i think u c what u wanna c lol,i think me and you have different opinions on progress,but keep hoping you will get there brave person🤭

[@victorsnyder9293]

@@pretoriarider7462 lol many countries are worse of than 30 years ago, Canada, USA,China, Germany, France, the list goes on, I cant speak for 60 million people but my life in SA is pretty good, I dont focus on the outside noise because it leads to negativity ( you’re a prime example) leave the country then 😂 What has this to do with Matt Williams though??

[@Smiley0725]

We are everything he wishes he was.Bloke hates us with a passion

[@nlb741]

Matt has issues with SA….. Rassie is in his head 😂😂😂😂

[@jonathandavis8599]

​@@pepeeeeeeeeeeeeee yet here you are online being salty about Saffa fans being Salty.

[@yoe91]

What ? His conclusion is South Africa would've won that game if not for some tactical mistakes.

[@JoseStev]

Matt is very extreme in his language always. It’s a show he’s putting on for the 💸💸💸

[@RazorMouth]

​@@jonathandavis8599 online on the channel of Irelands second national tv station 😂 Do you know where you are?

[@jdQuinnn]

Nah,Matt is right on this occasion.Not kicking into the corners,from 50m out, was stupid.When we did eventually do it,we almost scored.Rassie's not all that bright.

[@AdamSpenceVC]

😂😂😂 Matt hates the 7-1 split. Rassie has really got under his skin

[@renewablefuelsanalyst8263]

everyone hates the 7/1 split because we just use it so damn well. Think about it.....a coach from a little country in Africa has world-renowned pundits talking about bench players as the main topic. You cannot make this stuff up

[@basildavidson4597]

It’s not over until the final has been played. I love it that Ireland are the favourites. Let them live up to the hype.

[@washerdryer3466]

Ireland and SA are joint favourites right now. Do your research. Can SA handle the pressure? They didn't really in that loss.

[@_alienblood]

In fairness im Irish and havent heard anyone hype on TV or people were not that way, we are just trying to get past the quaters ATM.

[@craigweideman6194]

@@washerdryer3466 can they handle the pressure? 4 world cups says they can

[@Darren_S]

I can't believe Matt was talking good about the Boks lol

[@BenWoods2000]

@@pepeeeeeeeeeeeeee I went through almost all the comments and not one of them threatened violence in any way. People expressed their opinion on his opinion which they have every right to do as long as it doesn't threaten anyone. You are taking a small portion of fans and grouping a whole fanbase with the same cloth. You can do that with Irish fans as well.

[@sivuyilemtsi9840]

I was very impressed with his comments. There are comments that are prejudging him, but I feel he was very fair and neutral.

[@AC-hu3xk]

Matt Williams the Joker of the Rugby World Cup 😅😅😅

[@JOATMOFA]

He is like an adult that missed out on childhood - acting like someone took his toys?

[@glen1482]

Even the way he talks is irritating

[@MikeSmuts]

Me thinks the South African coaches knew exactly what they were doing. We didn't quite throw the game, but we prioritized high risk, long shots and experimentation above winning at all cost. The players didn't hold back, but I strongly suspect the coaches knew they were weighing down the team with some of their decisions. In short I'm quite happy to rather meet a injury-ridden France in the quarter-finals, rather than the AB's. I suspect the Springbok management feels the same way.

[@Gworiam3000]

Spot on. I don't understand why people that claim to be knowledgable in rugby (i.e pundits) just can't see this. But I guess we all view things differently. I think alot of the deciseion making from the Springboks camp was intentional.

[@jamesconroy6609]

Could say the same thing about Ireland - we went for line outs when we knew it’s been problematic for us recently and also a strength for the Boks. Both teams were sussing each other out, don’t deny it.

[@MikeSmuts]

@@jamesconroy6609 sounds reasonable

[@frankkelleher8301]

Well, in another video, Matt predicted that France will hammer the Boks. Seems unlikely to me. We now have two games to see how the Bok strategy evolves, so some of these questions will be resolved before the final.

[@jonathandavis8599]

Only good thing Matt did was inventing KFC. Other than that he sucks.

[@RazorMouth]

France in Paris? Good luck 👍

[@jacobking3211]

Jesus said, "I tell you the truth no one will see the kingdom of God unless he is born again. I am the way the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through me." For God so loved the world that He give His only Son that whoever believes in Him will not perish but will have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world but to save the World through Him. For all have sinned and come short of the Glory of God. For the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord, and All who call upon the name of the Lord will be saved. " If you want to be sure of Heaven and avoid the other place below say the following prayer sincerely from your heart." Lord Jesus I repent and am sorry for my sins forgive me. I forgive all who have offended me.I believe you died and Rose again .Come into my heart and save me. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour. Fill me with your Holy Spirit and baptise me with your Holy Spirit. Fulfill your plan and purpose in my life. "I recommend you read John's Gospel especially chapter 3.Gbu.John 3v3v22,John 14v6.

[@thomasrodwell563]

@frankkelleher8301 One of the few things Matt is right about. No one's beating France, except maybe Ireland

[@RazorMouth]

@@thomasrodwell563 I don't think SA will beat France either even without Dupont. They will throw the kitchen sink and the whole stadium at them.

[@abongilenonkelela7726]

South Africa 🇿🇦 living rent free in Matt Williams head 😅😅😅😅

[@andrewmakin8151]

in the bigger scheme of things, obviously no disrespect to ireland, but they simply played a role for the springboks. SA got what they wanted from winning the first few ireland lineouts, then backed off before showing too much, didn’t maul at all because nothing to learn or test, but definitely not wanting to show anything of a primary weapon until the time is right, which is why they kicked for poles and not the line, because nothing to loose within the purpose of this game. siya off ‘early’ to protect him also because nothing to loose.

[@tyronedejager2202]

Part of the plan, guys. SA played a way more expansive game, and it was a learning test, a gamble. It will be different next time.

[@Sean-ek5jz]

'part of the plan'... what, to lose? delusional

[@LeMerch]

So that’s two loses in the last few months against Ireland. I guess it’s all part of the MASTERPLAN 😂

[@renewablefuelsanalyst8263]

@@LeMerch At the end of the day it doesn't matter if a team wins all of their games before a world cup. Who lifts the trophy, walks away with all the pride and prestige. Same as the last WC. SA sucked in a lot of games building up to the world cup and they won it. Does it benefit Ireland to say they won all the matched but lost the world cup? Rassie is not an idiot that will kick for posts at 55m out without a goalkciker if he really needed to win the match. There are waaaaay more moving parts than we think. But congrats to Ireland. You still beat the boks

[@quentinadkins432]

​@@pepeeeeeeeeeeeeeeSA did play 15 man when they usually play 10 man in tight games. To illustrate: Ireland play expansive game? Yes? Scored 1 try. How is it then SA scored a try by the winger? Expansive? Yes. What is the goal here? To win RWC. The winner of this game does not lift trophy but wants to Its a pool game 1 or 2 on log determines QF opponent against pool where AB's loss to France was unlikely a month before rwc. Both teams had questions to answer preferred SA to win sentimentally but the underdog tag after SA feel is better. Ireland have the favourites tag. Congrats to them on this game. Was awesome rugby.

[@elduderino3236]

This is a great discussion. Bok fan here and I agree with pretty much all the points raised - yes, even Matt! Cheers

[@bongumusazondi8098]

It seems to me South Africa took this game as free hit, the strange decision to kick for goal 50m out and not go for the corner tells me that Rassie and Jacque wanted to try new things - they wanted to win, but in certain way.

[@nuthajason]

the ball was out on the last maul. ref messed up.

[@davidpeters3857]

Pollard was always coming back,just needed time to prove his fitness behind the scenes,I’d say Siya came off,as he has just returned from a serious injury ,so his game time is heavily monitored,surely Matt would understand this

[@JOATMOFA]

Matt Williams was head coach of Scotland and they won only three games out of 17 under his tenure - against Tier 2 nations Japan and Samoa in 2004, and against Italy in the 2005 Six Nations. After his role as Scotland coach, Williams was sacked as Scotland head coach in April 2005 having the worst win percentage of any Scottish permanent head coach, with Scotland's results immediately picking up with the arrival of new coach Frank Hadden, a former schoolteacher - WikiPedia

[@thobelandlebe4634]

As a Springbok supporter having reviewed this past game with the dust having now settled, I am now convinced that both teams (emotions aside) were experimenting in this test match, knowing full well that both can "afford" to lose and still come out of the group. Each of these two were on paper and on the field of play the two strongest teams in the group, and perhaps even in the tournament itself. How do you explain the Boks taking 45-50m kicks where the lineout is a better option? How do you explain Ireland not going for points on offer and instead go for the corner? How do you explain playing a lot with ball in hand instead of playing for territory and put the much vaunted defense on full-display? How do you explain the 7:1 bench split by them? I have had time to reflect and have come to the conclusion that to the Boks management it was more important what works and what does not in a final "dress rehearsal". Ireland won this game and they must be given their kudos for that without any discussion. There are no ifs and buts here, the team that deserved to win, won! That being the case it is more important to win the tournament itself than a group fixture, ask the All Blacks and they will tell you. I would really like to see Ireland go all the way and do justice to themselves and the Rugby World who would like to see their good run translate into the ultimate prize.

[@quentinadkins432]

Thank you bud. 100% agree with you. Its all percentages right? And most likely bet is SA Ireland final. Please see my comment somewhere here. Pool game. 1 or 2 on log is diffs between Fr & AB's It was intel.

[@PrinceAsh327]

Never clicked so fast to watch a video... As a Springboks fan seeing Matt William's face and "South Africa" in the title. Can't wait for his negative comments.

[@stevenburrow8804]

4:52 I hear you, but a lineout isn't points on offer...a kick is.

[@rae1714]

Rassie appears to be micro managing the team now with regards to the light signal.Taking the two strongest players off early was also bewildering to me. Rassie has to let the captain in conjunction with the team make the decisions on the field or they will stop thinking for themselves imo.

[@glen1482]

What is bewildering is that you have not taken into account the injuries that both players are nursing. Rassie's tactics have won a WC before... I am certain that he knows what he's doing, certainly more than you do.

[@henkstols9326]

As a Bok supporter would have loved to win the game and I felt it was definitely there for the taking, but its a pool match at the end of the day. If Kolisi or Etzebeth got injured because they weren't rotated it would have been a different discussion. Anyways I seriously hope we get thru to meet Ireland in the final but I have doubts as we dont have a kicker.

[@renewablefuelsanalyst8263]

agreed.....I believe Rassie tried a different game plan to see what would happen as an experiment as the boks did not need to win the game to progress. I believe he rested players and did not show too many of his cards. Our gameplay is exploitable against the flair of the ABs so maybe Rassie wouldn't mind playing france in the qrtrs. With Rassie we just don't know what is really going on and that makes it that more exciting

[@andreschoeman1317]

After just watching rugby pass, i can really appreciate the (mostly) unbiased comments. Things that have the most impact in world cups are injuries though.

[@Straightdeal]

Times change quickly. Some really talented South Africans have raised their hands in recent times, Grant Williams, Canan Moodie and of course Manie Libbok. Experience is important, but nothing beats sheer natural talent and ball sense. Watch Moodie and Williams on Sunday!

[@robinholland2990]

There was nothing in it really..I thought the Irish were suberb and forced us to lose composure at the line once or twice and defended as though their lives depended on it..missed kicks at goal did not help our cause...we lost it simple as that but boy oh boy were the Irish not superb on the night...we sussed em out now and we showed nothing really so I believe although we lost we got more from the game then they did...it's a long way and road ahead for both teams so just want to wish Ireland all the best ahead and if it all works out we will meet again the final...

[@johnmc3862]

Teams can't suss out Ireland, they have excellent variation in attack. Strong in all aspects of the game. Ireland will be better esp in the line out next time v SA.

[@quentinadkins432]

​@@johnmc3862respectfully disagree. You can suss out a team. Called test rugby for a reason when it is tier 1 vs tier 1 games. There were a lot of questions being asked in both camps behind the scenes believe me. Questions that have bearing on post QF with reasonable expectation both get to final. ie a SA Ireland final this rwc At this stage it was still: It's a Pool game where both teams make it to QF anyhow. (Without being presumptuous cant see Scotland or Tonga beating these two) 1 or 2 on log going to QF determines Fr or NZ? Who would Ireland prefer? NZ perhaps. In SA we know we don't want AB's rather France. With a highest % chance of SA Ireland final then they have intel from pool game I think both Ireland SA wanted to answer some questions and both know that rectifying aspects SA kicks and maul Ireland lineout give them a crack at winning if they in final. Epic rwc this time around. Most interesting thanks to Ireland being so strong in this rwc. 👏

[@Profreegolfer]

Also worth noting that this game, while worth big bragging rights, in the grand scheme of this tournament doesn’t mean much.(unless Ireland loose to Scotland). And I don’t think either of the quarter teams will be easier then the other. The Boks coaching staff definitely tried a few things as I’m sure Ireland did. If the meet in the final I’m sure it will be even more intense.

[@michaelodonnell824]

First problem for South Africa was that they only have one Hooker in their squad. In picking the squad, Erasmus & co decided to take only two Hookers. When Marx got injured, that left them with one. They could have decided to call up another Hooker, but instead chose to call up Pollard, who isn't even a forward. Question here is, what will SA management do if Mbonambi gets injured early in their last pool match? Choose to go into the quarter finals with NO HOOKER? The second thing to note is that Libbock isn't a bad kicker (against NZ in Twickenham, he kicked conversions for fun). Libbock rather is (currently) an inconsistent kicker. Moreover, as Jonny Sexton pointed out, EVERY kicker, no matter how experienced, goes through periods of inconsistency. In their previous match against Scotland, when it became clear that Libbock wasn't as accurate with his kicking, de Klerk took over the kicking duties, though NOT from inside his own half. We also need to remember that despite his place kicking issues, against Scotland Libbock got Player of the Match, and no one disagreed with that decision. The biggest issue facing South Africa is that while Libbock is, by far, the best outhalf they have, he isn't, currently, a reliable kicker. So if you bring Pollard in, while you may gain place kicking reliability (Pollard averages 75%), you lose all the other skills Libbock can provide... And the SA coaches decided, before the Tournament started, that Libbock's ball playing skills were the way forward... Do they change tack now?

[@ledgebag224]

Do you think Rob and Matt have scuffles off camera?

[@darrellw.matodes6898]

Guys...both South Africa and Ireland still have to play qfinals...its a different pressure..different game. NZ..is going to be a very difficult game for Ireland...

[@darrellw.matodes6898]

@@pepeeeeeeeeeeeeee they will thrash Italy. Not so sure Ireland will beat scotland..buy more than likely will. Depends on the team.Farrell puts out.

[@washerdryer3466]

And SA fans don't even want to think about France. 😉😉

[@darrellw.matodes6898]

@@washerdryer3466 SA fans don't care they have just as good of a chance to beat France...easily...just as Ireland.may have a chance of beating NZ. ..it's all on the day

[@washerdryer3466]

@@darrellw.matodes6898 Beat France easily? Dream on.

[@darrellw.matodes6898]

@@washerdryer3466 well...doubt the Irish will have it easy either...my bet is they going home.

[@tauriquesedick2300]

South Africa never messed up yes we lost and we take it but we were exercising patterns and defence and counter we could have kicked for corner and score we dominated the lineouts already but we chose to kick to see if the goal kickers can handle the pressure if Iam Ireland I wouldnt be to excited but well done u guys deserved to win 💯

[@struesbob7493]

7-1 split and only had 2 mauls. Two 55 metre kicks from Faf. Well done Ireland but Boks are not disappointed by meeting France in Quarters.

[@renewablefuelsanalyst8263]

@@struesbob7493 bingo

[@MokgakalaRichard]

South Africa didn't want to win the game, to avoid facing New Zealand in the quarter finals...

[@_alienblood]

But France destroyed New Zealand in the second half, even with injuries France at home and won by 14 points!

[@MokgakalaRichard]

@@_alienblood I would rather play France over New Zealand in the quarter finals,trust me.

[@_alienblood]

@@MokgakalaRichard but france destroyed Zealand in the second half 2 weeks ago

[@waynerockman1242]

I thought that kolisi and Eben should've stayed on for a little longer as the boks were getting ontop of Ireland. They could've gone for the touch. Maybe that was part of a bigger plan here??

[@waynerockman1242]

@@pepeeeeeeeeeeeeee was that something i missed because i never saw that. No sir. Sa coaches also did not blew the game. Again no sir

[@henkstols9326]

Our dominance meant nothing because we couldnt add the score board pressure, no kicker no WC unfortunately.

[@waynerockman1242]

@@pepeeeeeeeeeeeeee 👏👏blàh blah blah

[@Titanium351]

It was Rassie who put out the gameplan, they went with a 7-1 split and should have fully committed, poor decision making and a bit of panic set in.

[@Flatlikeme]

Lets be honest, Rassie is kak , keep changing the team. Yes it's okay to rest some players but he is really messing about. Kwagga always needs to start the game and Cobus. Cobus can cut like a knife and Kwagga can turn over ball, if we go out against France ima load my gun and come for Rassie.

[@jonathandavis8599]

​@@Flatlikemelet's be honest you are a poes. Ok now let's use our brains. Rassie went for goal to test the metrle of Faf and Manie. If they did not succeed which they didn't he knew he had to make a plan to test Pollard Of Mannie or Faf managed Pollard would not be needed to rush into the starting team.

[@renewablefuelsanalyst8263]

@@Flatlikeme Really? the best coach in the world who beat NZ 35-7 is KAK? Dink weer

[@donjohn2065]

Rassie is a genius!

[@malp4650]

Management didnt stuff up. They managed exactly as intended. They just weren't hell bent on winning that one...

[@Natedawg38]

Its a group game!!! Let the over analysis begin when these are all over next week

[@jaspermalan3640]

Matt is parcially correct, it was a game of who is fooling who, south Africa played different, missed kicks and just played enough to stay in touch with Ireland, the teams that have had the experiences in WC knows not to play with your heart on your sleeve, it is a tournament not a sprint, Jacques and Rassie are masters in the WC and know what they are doing there records prove it, ask yourself how did they manage to get it so wrong, or did they get it right, time will tell, take nothing away from Ireland they played beautiful and valiant and won the match on the park, south Africa won the long planing in this WC

[@ayandaveli2882]

I don't buy that even though we managed it in 2019. We're in a different situation now and maybe we beat France but Ireland are cooking with Gas at the moment.

[@jaspermalan3640]

@@ayandaveli2882 I don't agree my friend, the Ireland team has to meet up with the All Black Team in QF game, the guys in Black is cooking nicely under the radar and everybody made a mistake to write them off, they gonna regret it, I feel they are the team to beat in this WC, time will tell

[@divannavid4576]

Nobody is writing NZ off. The idea that Rassie is a master is ridiculous. SAs had an easy run to the final, and they barely got over the line.

[@jaspermalan3640]

@@divannavid4576 Rassie is the only coach that has won the WC, that makes him the master not even up for debate my friend, any other coach current in the WC can say that?

[@jeanm27]

Keep in mind, that all the available kickers were on the field against Ireland. Libbok, Faf and also Kolbe

[@robvandenheuvel128]

It’s possible, rightly or wrongly, Bok management are still experimenting with options and permutations. Just a thought

[@LeMerch]

and getting it wrong. What about the last time they played and lost to Ireland only a few months ago?

[@felixlieter1429]

Fef de Klerk said after the game "that was fun". I tink losing d game ment very little to SA. I tink SA lost d game themselves rather than been beaten by Ireland.

[@paulmcmenamin205]

Guys, I do like your comments, but a World Cup is not won in the first round. I don't think SA management is playing all their cards just yet. I think SA know where their weaknesses are and will be dangerous coming back.

[@lukeluus8987]

Agreed, this was not a win at all costs game, we were still experimenting and trying different things out, this is far from what actually can play.

[@renewablefuelsanalyst8263]

@@lukeluus8987 bingo....who kicks from 55m with a b-rated kicker and one of the most potent mauls in the world? Sure Rassie accidentally "made the wrong decision". Good luck to anyone who believes that...

[@kalaharikreef7371]

Everyone talks about this and that, if any of the points that was left on the table was taken, the game would have changed and another outcome for the whole games was on the table. The Irish won. Let them have it.

[@hvacdesignsolutions]

If Ireland can overcome Scotland and NZ, then i'll dare to dream. Until then, let's stop talking about a final.

[@michaelodonnell824]

I'm fully with you there... I've been here too many times before, when Ireland beat a favoured team in the pool... And no one in Ireland is unaware that we have never made it past the quarter finals...

[@Flatlikeme]

NOPE I'M NOT FROM NZ BUT I THINK THEY GONNA BEAT THE IRISH, I CAN FEEL IT IN MY BONES, IT'S ABOUT PRIDE.

[@Kevin-lf4xx]

It’s too late , people in Ireland are already getting carried away with everything.

[@garyoak-q7m]

Dream on. there’s no chance. The fact is Ireland won’t get to the Semi’s 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂i can wait to see the comments on the sore loser Irish😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@johanweakley2658]

As a South African Im not a fan of Matt Williams but he makes some valid points. Here's another angle: the Bok midfield was exposed on defense as well as on attack and we could not change the rhythm of the game because we had no suitable personnel on the bench.

[@markkeogh2190]

They didn’t miss 11. they scored 5 when they hit the post and only got the conversion because of that same try. The left 4 points out there. Not enough to have won.

[@jadenphilander8799]

Bullshit.

[@jadenphilander8799]

@@pepeeeeeeeeeeeeee Hitting the post? That try came from a dominant scrum by Irelands tryline, I dont think you remember the game.

[@wihanvanzyl4564]

Man the world must think Bok fans are in denial. We'll know a after the QFs and I for one can't wait to see how this all plays out.

[@Flatlikeme]

DUDE HANG ON , NOT ALL OF US. SOME OF US CAN SEE RASSIE IS MESSING ABOUT AND HE NEEDS TO STOP THIS OR WE WILL GET KNOCKED OUT AT THE QF. ANYWAYS LET ME GO AND SEE WHERE I HIDE MY GUN :))

[@wihanvanzyl4564]

​@@pepeeeeeeeeeeeeeefair point😂

[@paulsmith3966]

Once upon a time it was said a team needed 14 men who stayed on side and 1 goalkicker... SA might go for 14 forwards and no goalkicker... More seriously, both teams go through and both will have learned from this match, and (frighteningly) will be stronger for it.

[@victorswart7411]

Yes Pollard should have been on thebench 6 2 bench.

[@dmazingi]

Those two are actually saying the same as Matt Williams but then they say they disagree with him. Weird

[@ismailfrancis6159]

Rassie is holding his cards tight to his chest. That's why they kicked for poles. He doesn't want to play too much rugby yet.

[@salomonligthelm14]

Matt Williams, yeah we got it so wrong and the coaches now need to apologize for being so close in the game where it could have shifted our way last minute - on a non-crucial game?!? Rob Kearney is much more level headed - there was not much between the teams in that game. But definitely hats off to Ireland for the win!

[@seanlennon5986]

if you kick one goal then you don't necessarily get the other chances, as the course of the game changes, so its a non argument.

[@malp4650]

The goal kicking issue is a matter strictly for the kicker to sort out and no other player can affect that. As for the Irish lineout; sure they can rectify it but hey, lets give SA credit. They too can apply more pressure and continue to upset the Irish lineout.

[@77WHeavy]

Clearly Matt needs a HIA.

[@BhengzIn80days]

Statistically, The Springboks have one of the best defensive lineout strategies , it’s therefore somewhat overly optimistic to say that Ireland left 10-15 points because of inaccurate throws. The better team won on the night though, and there probably wasn’t much to separate them. Play off pressure will be the real test for all teams but possibly more so for Ireland because as good as they are, there’s still a pretenders to the thrown feel about their journey .

[@jasonwall5012]

isn't over dramatic at all. Irelands line-out was absolutely awful, and changed drastically in the second half, Also Ireland knocked the ball on at the try line and stuff, so 1 could easily make the same assumptions, that south African fans and punditry are making, that if they were to kick all them kicks they would have won the game.... I'm sorry to burst your bubble , but we dont live in ifs, buts, or maybes, only realities. The reality is, yous missed the kicks over pressure and didn't take your chances. We kicked ours and took our chances.

[@BhengzIn80days]

@@jasonwall5012 it’s very dramatic actually. You’re assuming Ireland would’ve scored from nearly each of those lineouts, which is silly. How many teams have you seen in 4 years, maul the Springboks over? (I’ll wait). Also, go back and watch carefully and you’ll see that South Africa actually contested those lineouts which contributed to the mis-throws so please, easy on the “we would’ve beaten you by more” garbage. And if you want to talk missed chances, besides the kicks SA had a couple of attacking opportunities in Ireland’s 22 , one where Kriel gave Kolisi a harsh pop up pass about a metre away from the line and he knocked on. The other time I believe it was turned over. So we can also easily claim to have scored some tries but we’re not. Ireland deserve the victory (don’t know if you missed that part in my statement) but let’s not act like it wasn’t a closely contested game. Ireland are beatable and they will be in this tournament

[@NickSterson]

@@jasonwall5012 Wading in late but you can't compare the ifs and buts of lost lineouts with at 85% goal kicking rate. The two are not equivalent. It's basic maths. The return on a lineout in the 22 and that then being a try is probably 50% if you are lucky.

[@myshepspud1]

Guys it's not that complicated. In SA alot of behind the scenes politics. Rassie and now Neinaber have mostly successfully circumnavigated that with certain strategies. One is they built this whole bomb squad idea with the idea being the replacements are as important as the starters. Then you don't have arguments if the politics prefer a player starts. Then you also have to take them off around the same time. If they start playing some players 70 min and just putting players in for 10 min or not at all from the bench questions arise over favouritism. In a place like South Africa it can never be just that always goes racial.

[@glen1482]

That's bull, the bomb squad are awesome. Especially the front row! They made an impact as soon as they came on

[@Driver2616]

This wasn’t the South Africa coaches messing up, as much as it was Ireland playing better and winning the game. As the game was ongoing, if the referee had done his job properly and policed the line outs correctly, Ireland would’ve scored more points. Also, if the referee and the TMO had picked up the cheap off the ball shot on Mack Hansen, then the South African try would have been disallowed. Anyway, that was a clearly forward final pass. You can’t say that the past was backwards, but momentum, carried it forward. Momentum wouldn’t bring it forward by that much of a distance! Ireland deserved that victory. They would have won by a bigger score if it were referred better. They were much the better team. Each team plays with whatever assets they have available to them. The kicking assets that South Africa have are Faf de Klerk and Manie Libbock with Pollard to come back in at some future date. And if your assets are really up to it, then you will win the game. If not, then you lose. South Africa lost. Overall Ireland played much better than South Africa deserve the win, and would have one by more if the team of officials had adjudicated the game properly.

[@keithonlife]

Dear MW how many times does Rassie have to say there is a return to play policy in the Bok team and Pollard had not met the standards required set by the team and management ....

[@emy2310]

SA only wanted to meet NZ in the final. Rassie was/is a genius

[@evln8334]

Calm down people, the Boks are still in the game. If there was one game we lost I'm glad it's against the log leaders. So now we get our stuff together and look to win the next game. Go Bokke💪🇿🇦

[@weirdandwhacky]

The what? We didn't have a replacement kicker?? We didn't even have a starting kicker

[@Amanzi379]

I love how the Irish guys offer a balanced viewpoint, and the Aussie bloke hasn't got a clue what he is talking about :)

[@jonathansnashall9654]

Matt had a win rate of 18% when coaching Scotland which explains why he cant see Boks were tinkering / trialling a few things

[@thomasrodwell563]

Who uses a world cup to trial things? Play to win or don't play

[@philgavin]

Some interesting comments and predictions were made a month ago. It is pretty remarkable how many predictions turned out to be bang on the money. In hindsight now that ZA beat the ABs in the final, these so-called dimwit decisions by Rassie in the ZA-IRE match, were in fact, 3D chess. Most commenters below figured out what was really happening. Matt and the overconfident Irish over-hyped this in the press beautifully, just like Rassie knew they would. Congratulations to Ireland for an entertaining match, but it was Matt Wilson and his ilk that was really being played like a violin by the Springboks.

[@ratel8598]

Springboks got more out of this game than Ireland.

[@declanmurphy417]

rubbish

[@Cenotaur1]

Really??? IRE showed other teams how to defuse the bomb squad. You guys played your best hand and it wasn't good enough.

[@Sean-ek5jz]

just another delusional fan, nothing to see here

[@ratel8598]

@@Cenotaur1 maybe. Enjoy the rest of the tournament.

[@gfdsa54321k]

Lol … Ireland gone

[@Patrick-sheen]

There’s very little between them. They play tomorrow and SA could win. Could analyse it to death, but we should be happy to win and move on. There’s a tonne of rugby left to play. Saffers be there or there abouts at the end I reckon.

[@Patrick-sheen]

@@pepeeeeeeeeeeeeee no doubt..Ireland in great form too, we’re excited because it’s literally the best we’ve ever been

[@warrenvanaswegen8565]

SA picked 2 front rows and then played more with the back line than in the game against NZ . And they had no goal kicker and that cost them the victory . Maybe Ireland should not read more into a victory than that Lady Luck has favoured them in the last 2 games these teams have played.

[@hughciarancolgan9180]

With the messed up online had worked well SA would still have lost it all evens out

[@1987markanthony]

In November we were without Lowe, Aki and JG Park was on bench as he was just back from injury so its much of a muchness.

[@Cenotaur1]

SA try should have been disallowed bcos Libbik's pass was 3m forward. But do tell/whine about 'Lady Luck'.

[@prudeuncle]

​@@Cenotaur1yea and SA should have got a penalty try off the last maul what's your point?

[@conorcahill5422]

They talk about the things South Africa did wrong as if they threw it away, but why didn't they talk about the first action, when Ireland chose to kick for the corner rather than score first with the 3x points on offer? Multiple times Ireland chose to go for the corner as well, but at the time, their lineout wasn't working. Both teams made poor judgemental calls when points were on offer. The game for me was NOT lost on the goalkicking from South Africa. It was the coaches decision to have 7 forwards and one back on the bench, leaving no opportunity to change things up if the backs were misfiring in various departments. No way will they try that again in the final should they get there and Ireland potentially do too.

[@Cool-Air-Kani]

I think its kinda good we lost against Ireland, we just played All Blacks and we gave them a proper hiding 🤷 they will come out guns blazing against us. Pretty confident Ireland can beat All Blacks, your physically stronger and match each for speed/pace

[@Patch801]

When tactics change the game dynamic changes. It not possible to determine who might have won if something changed, if SA kicks more points, the dynamic would be different. You score points and the rest of the game doesnt just happen the same way it did. Its all nonsense. I believe both teams can play better. I believe both teams made it so difficult for each other. Next time will also be tight.

[@schneidervonhammer722]

The Boks hardly contested any lineouts in the Rugby Championship, then vs NZ at Twickenham they competed. A 7-1 split then not attacking the corners with the fresh pack was tactical. The kicking was probably just to see if they could kick(they can't) so now they know they 100% need the kicker. Still composure and decision-making on the fly is where Ireland won - Can the Boks learn to be more composed and astute with their decision-making in the KO games...time will tell.

[@Camcolito]

What the F is Rob Kearney talking about?

[@Mr-Litch]

What if Rassie actually decided that maybe France would be a better option

[@jasonwall5012]

Pal keep spinning that web, 😂 south africa went into that game to win it. Hence why yous used a 7/1 split and yous all were saying the same shit. Now all the excuses.

[@Mr-Litch]

@jasonwall5012 🙂🙂Like Dricus du Plessis said yall don't know wat we know.. see you in the final mate.. if you get there..

[@Mr-Litch]

@jasonwall5012 ok Spiderman I know you think you clever and you might well be but wen it cums to rugby you don't have the brain. Everyone the world over says that rassie is the most intelligent coach and if so how do you explain the decision making in that game they go for poles yet Manie kicks into the 5m line 9 out of 10 times but they don't go for it Bongi is a specialist hooker yet they don't go for line outs they take Bongi off bring on Deon with 1 weeks experience and they go for line outs and Rassie insisted on taking kicks from 50m out knowing that Manie can kick for the 5m line and put it on a dime. Now let that stew for a bit but some how I still think it will go over yr head. However great game from Ireland

[@eamontdmas]

​@@Mr-LitchFair enough. You keep your secrets. We'll take the win.

[@4Q_4Q2]

​@@Mr-LitchTurns out your were right.

[@loughrey101]

It's great that Rob brought up that point at the end able the lineouts as Ireland has been known to have the best driving maul in the world. They scored most of their tries against France and New Zealand with the maul from a lineout. Even their only try of the game came from one of their few successful lineouts. So it's naive and unfair on Ireland to focus on South Africa's kicking, as if Ireland didn't also leave a lot of points out there from their set pieces. Ireland had a try cancelled off due to a knock on, that was 7 points missed there from poor ball control, that alone would have cancelled out the 11 points South Africa left out there by taking their potential lead to 12 points, if we simply talk about the actual points that were missed from mistakes without ever talking about what could have been if Ireland's lineouts in South Africa's 22 had functioned like it did against New Zealand and France. Nobody talks about Ireland's first try that they would have scored -because they did pass the try line - if they had better ball control, South Africa pink got past the try line once by comparison. So Ireland left a lot more points out there than South Africa did

[@renewablefuelsanalyst8263]

yeah I dont think we should read to much into that game. It wasn't a must win game for either team so a lot of cards were kept in hand. SA arguable has 2 of the best forward packs in the world so mauling is 2nd nature for us. Yet we kicked from 55m out. A different strategy was at play so I didn't take the game at face value

[@NickSterson]

So in other words IRE made lots of mistakes and the only mistake the Boks made was missing their kicks? Gee good luck with logic in life pal!

[@gpac8147]

Coaches did great .. was a pool game ...were it a knock out , Ireland lose

[@_alienblood]

How did you make that one out Ireland loose they won on the day!

[@Pltjr33]

Great game of rugby, Ireland deserve to win. Request: Please direct questions to the rest of the panel (who are very good) and ignore Matt. 😂 He is now beginning to annoy other pundits with his views and elaborate hand gestures and pointing 😵‍💫 He just can’t take it when someone disagrees with him…and always needs to have the last word…..

[@ahlads]

Matt was right though. Big mistake by management to opt for kicks rather than go for the corners.

[@roryfleming2320]

I think the light system is really undermining Kolisi's leadership

[@Kevin-lf4xx]

People seem to forget that SA lost to NZ in the pool stages in 2019 and went onto win the tournament and NZ were beaten in the semi final.

[@nepiahemopo1702]

Adopting your reasoning. ABs losing their first pool match implys they go on to win the WC, while SA bundled out in the quarters, right?😂😂

[@paulmcmenamin205]

The SA front row bench demolished Ireland, not so?

[@oliverberard]

This was the pole "kickers" audition to see if they could cut it in an high pressure match. They failed, and now the coaches know. This was a high pressure, no real consequence match. That's why they didn't go for corners.

[@Sean-ek5jz]

'no real consequence'... delusional

[@oliverberard]

Fr or Nz... No easy way. That's all that was at stake. Knock out rugby has consequences.

[@lightningRatPack]

Everyone is playing checkers; South Africa is playing chess. :)

[@BarryHawk]

Rob is mostly right, they don't even have another kicker, why they didn't go 6-2 and have Pollard on the bench is odd though. Going forward they will miss Marx. If they put Pollard in, their attack changes

[@henrygordon6808]

Truthfully, Ireland's line-out was disrupted by the Springboks who probably have one of the best line-outs in World Rugby, and they will disrupt that line-out again. The Springboks stopped competing in the second half to get an idea of what Ireland will do tactically at line-out. Fixing the line-out is not the same as fixing the goal-kicking. Ireland had a good line-out, the South Africans' were just excellent at creating pressure. If SA play Ireland again we will see the same malfunctioning Irish line-out.

[@renewablefuelsanalyst8263]

I also saw that. Yup Rassie is keeping a few cards in hand...

[@dumisaralane]

This Matt Williams is something else 😂 and quite often the other pundits disagree with him. His hatred and disdain for SA 🇿🇦 will cause him cancer🤣

[@maverickat4544]

Rassie and Nienaber rent free in Matt Williams' head 😂

[@petes9524]

The Boksonly just lost that game because Libbok had an off day with his boot.

[@saiyandemonisher]

Strange enough Mr Williams you said Boks had a horrendous games and Ireland was Brilliant. Bias much mate? Ireland had a good game and made mistakes which cost points. Boks had a good game and made mistakes that cost points. Besides for goal kicking the teams were pretty evenly matched both defenses were on point hence only 1 try per team. Go check the stats mate Ireland goal kicking out classed Boks but on field states Boks just a margin better than Ireland so should these 2 teams go at it again it could still go either way. Strange how all the SA pundits have nothing but good things to say about Ireland and here you come once again showing how classy you really are.

[@jakestone954]

Wow Irish guy snubbing his team this guy, although Kearney spot on with line out comments, we will also kick more so watch out yall

[@stevenburrow8804]

Matt Williams has a point here...

[@j-cbaumgartner5761]

So little difference between the two teams. this could have gone either way. so lets not get carried away

[@ianjacobs2998]

Mat was correct for once in his life .We should have kicked for touch !!!!!

[@climatedoomer6139]

It wasn't 11 points!

[@darrellw.matodes6898]

What's Amazing to me these guys are already talking about the final. Reminder of England's arrogance in 2019. If they play Boks in the final the Boks will not lose again. Also.. Both Boks and Ireland have to get passed NZ and France first. Let's see if that happens.

[@corneldejongh]

Matt trying his best to justify his prior comments that the 7-1 bench was ridiculous.

[@jadenphilander8799]

Remember guys...Line outs do not = points but kicks at goals do.

[@jimmyobrien8738]

Get Pollard back then because libbok and de Klerk obviously don't guarantee points

[@jadenphilander8799]

@@pepeeeeeeeeeeeeee 50m kicks are most likely to be points from where faf kicked it than a line out. Where Libbok kicked it, its 50/50.

[@loughrey101]

Ireland took their captain off too to be fair when the game was far from over.

[@Darknight80888]

Even the other panelists have become suspicious of Matt’s hatred toward South Africa 😂

[@Straightdeal]

They do have other goal kickers FFS. Libbok was 100% successful with his kicks against NZ. Also, Willemse and KOLBE can kick. They just seem to have hopes on Pollard, whose kicking stats are not much better than Libbok's, both below 80%.

[@gerypot1]

why doesn't faff take their kicks? if he is allowed to kick from the 50 why can't he kick from inside the 50?