The Junior Springboks were able to break their disappointing streak at the World Rugby U20 Championship by securing a convincing 47-31 victory over Wales in the seventh/eighth place play-off. The match, held at the Cape Town Stadium, demonstrated the Junior Boks’ dominance as they scored an impressive seven tries.
Having suffered defeats against Argentina and England, the injury-plagued Junior Boks were determined to change their fortunes. Their previous win against Fiji on June 29 seemed like a distant memory, but they were able to recapture that winning spirit in their match against Wales.
Although Wales had hoped to take advantage of South Africa’s recent struggles, the Junior Boks quickly established control of the game, scoring three tries within the first half-hour. Skipper Zach Porthen led the charge with an early try, followed by additional tries from Sibabalwe Mahashe and JF van Heerden, establishing a commanding 19-point lead.
While Wales managed to score a try before halftime, it was not enough to halt the Junior Boks’ momentum. In the second half, Mahashe and Bathobele Hlekani extended South Africa’s lead with two more tries, further solidifying their dominance on the field.
Despite a small resurgence from Wales with a couple of late tries, the Junior Boks maintained their composure and secured the victory with tries from Asad Moos and Porthen, ultimately securing a comprehensive win.
The Welsh team, who had only managed one victory in the Championship, found themselves unable to match the Junior Boks’ intensity, resulting in a disappointing end to their campaign. However, they displayed resilience with a couple of well-executed tries towards the end of the match.
Overall, the Junior Boks’ performance was a testament to their skill and determination, demonstrating their ability to overcome adversity and end the Championship on a positive note. The victory not only provided a much-needed morale boost for the team but also showcased their potential for future success in international rugby.
As the World Rugby U20 Championship continues, rugby enthusiasts can look forward to more thrilling match-ups and impressive displays of talent from young athletes. Each team’s journey in the tournament serves as a reminder of the passion and dedication that defines the sport at every level.