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South Africa head coach Rassie Erasmus paid tribute to Italy’s resilience and determination after the world champions overcame a spirited second-half fightback to secure a 42-24 win in the first Test in Pretoria on Saturday.
The Springboks dominated the opening 40 minutes at Loftus Versfeld, running in four tries and conceding only a penalty to take a commanding 28-3 lead into the break. However, Italy mounted an impressive response after the interval, outscoring the hosts three tries to two and refusing to be overwhelmed despite fielding a youthful and depleted side.
“Credit to Italy — they really stood firm. They left several star players at home and still showed great heart, while we had a lot of experience on the field,” said Erasmus following the match.
“We knew it would be a tough, gritty affair, and that’s exactly what they gave us. They were combative in every aspect of the game.
“We tried to impose our style, but they wouldn’t let us. They defended superbly and kept the pressure on in the second half.
“We had players knocking-on, missing lineouts, mistiming throws — there were countless errors. I’d love to say why, but the upside is that it’s all fixable.”
Erasmus acknowledged the second half didn’t go to plan, especially the opening stages after the break, which were marred by stoppages.
“It was difficult to build rhythm. The first ten minutes of the second half were very stop-start, and we just couldn’t hit our stride. Italy, on the other hand, switched on straight away after each break — that’s something we’ll need to address.
“They tackled relentlessly — 130 tackles in the first half alone — and still didn’t fold. That speaks volumes about their fitness and determination.
“Our own intensity and physicality weren’t where they needed to be, which was frustrating because training during the week had gone well, and we thought the players were sharp and physical.”
Italy head coach Gonzalo Quesada said he was proud of how his inexperienced squad rose to the occasion despite the absence of 17 regulars.
“With so many experienced players missing, it was crucial we were brave and fully committed defensively,” said the former Argentina fly-half.
“Our jackalers worked incredibly hard to regain possession and disrupt their attacks, and we had to absorb their powerful carries.
“I’m proud of the team on many fronts. The Springboks came at us with intensity, and we responded with real heart and commitment.
“In the first half, I think we lacked a bit of self-belief and didn’t fully execute what we’d worked on. At half-time, we reminded the players they were capable of much more.
“Our leadership group managed the second half brilliantly, and the impact from the bench — our so-called ‘grenade squad’ — made a real difference.
“I’m especially pleased we didn’t concede a single try from mauls — that’s one of South Africa’s most dangerous weapons,” Quesada added.
