WATCH - 'So beautiful': Swys on the Siya effect
WATCH: The support shown by Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has been incredible for his female counterparts says South Africa Women Performance coach Swys de Bruin.
Earlier in the week, Kolisi went viral when he urged fans to join him and rally behind the Springbok Women when they take on the Wallaroos at Athlone Stadium.
The skipper stayed true to his word, passionately supporting the national women’s team in the stands during their WXV 2 clash against Australia.
Unfortunately, the Springbok Women could not record a famous victory. However, they produced an impressive comeback that almost saw them draw the match.
But Wallaroos managed to hold on for the 33-26 victory.
*Article continues below…
Speaking after the match, De Bruin recognised the impact of having a figure like Kolisi backing the Bok Women as the game continues to grow.
“The crowd support and to have Springbok captain Kolisi [in the stands] was fantastic,” said De Bruin.
“Kolisi came an hour before kick-off time and chatted to the coaches. I told him it was so beautiful. He said to me, ‘It’s my passion, that’s my love, coach’.
“He came into the changeroom and I saw the girls’ faces [lit up].
“I don’t think the people really understand the [magnitude of who] Siya Kolisi is.
“He is a phenomenal human being. He is a God-fearing man as well and that I love.”
#REACTION: “I don’t have a better word, just extremely proud.” #rugby #news #sports @WomenBoks #WomenInSport #WomenInRugby https://t.co/MF8JAfgByZ
— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) October 5, 2024
Captain Lusanda Dumke hailed the more than 2000 spectators for their support, stating it was really vital, especially in the closing minutes of the match.
The Bok Women were trailing 12-33 in the last quarter before converted tries by Zintle Mpupha and Micke Gunter narrowed the deficit to just seven points.
With the crowd roaring with passion, the Bok Women came close in the final minute, but a last-ditch steal by Ash Marsters saw the Wallaroos record the win.
“The crowd really played a role and made an impact. It was like having an extra player on the field.
“It is always great to know there are people backing you. When you make a mistake you feel the crowd and it just lifts you.
“I think if they can continue to show their support we can only grow as a team”
With one round to go, the Springbok Women are third on the WXV 2 log with seven log points, Scotland are second with eight and Australia are top with 10 points after two matches.
The final round of games will be played next weekend and with Scotland and Australia playing each other, a strong win over Italy could still push South Africa to the top of the standings.
