Why Libbok had 'mixed emotions' at Ellis Park
REACTION: Scoring his first try in a Springbok jersey is one of those moments a player dreams of.
However, Springbok flyhalf Manie Libbok knows there is much work to do if he wants to realise his World Cup dream.
The 26-year-old No.10 scored the Boks’ third try in the 69th minute of their nailbiting 22-21 Rugby Championship win against Argentina at Ellis Park at the weekend.
It was a Faf de Klerk intercept that set up the score.
Good pressure defence by the Boks forced the Pumas into some poor passing and from such a handling error, De Klerk pounced on a stray pass and sent Libbok away on a 50m run.
The flyhalf did not only score the five-pointer, but also kicked the conversion for a 22-9 lead – seven points that proved to be decisive in a fortuitous victory for South Africa.
After the game, Libbok was asked how it felt to score his first try in the Green and Gold.
“It was an excellent feeling, scoring my first try,” he said.
“It is moments like that one dreams of.
“I needed to make sure I reach the tryline, because they scrambled well on defence and after that, I just felt absolute joy,” Libbok told a post-match media briefing.
He added that he is not looking too far ahead, despite the obvious goal of earning World Cup selection.
(WATCH Jacques Nienaber speaks about the Grant Williams incident … article continues below)
“Obviously to make the World Cup squad is the aim,” the flyhalf said.
“We all know there are quality players in this group, especially in my position.
“My focus now is to nail each and every day and each time I get an opportunity to play.
“I just have to put my best foot forward and if I do get picked for the World Cup, it will be a dream come true.
“My focus now is just to go out there and give my all every time I get an opportunity.”
Losing his scrumhalf Grant Williams within the first ten seconds of the game, was very sad, Libbok said.
“I feel very sad for him, for going down like that.
“You don’t want to go down like that, especially in your first start.
“He looked out. I hope he recovers quickly.
“Luckily Faf could take his place and he has a lot of experience, which took a lot of pressure off me.”
