Willemse thanks Elton Jantjies, Bok mentors after milestone match
REACTION: Damian Willemse says protecting the Springboks’ proud Ellis Park record was the driving force behind Saturday’s 45-21 demolition of England, even on a night that marked his 50th Test appearance.
Willemse and fellow backline star Cheslin Kolbe both reached the half-century milestone as South Africa opened their Nations Championship campaign in style, but the versatile back revealed the squad had spent the week talking about preserving a legacy stretching back more than five decades.
Ironically, despite one of his finest performances in a Springbok jersey, Willemse almost missed out on individual recognition altogether.
After dominating under the high ball and producing another polished display at fullback, it appeared he had been named Player of the Match.
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Instead, during the on-field presentation, the wrong Damian was called forward, with Damian de Allende initially accepting the award before the mix-up became apparent.
Earlier in the week, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus had reminded the players that England have not beaten the Springboks at Ellis Park since 1972, adding further significance to the occasion.
“We spoke about it this week because Rassie mentioned that the last time England beat South Africa at home was in 1972,” Willemse said.
“We spoke about the legacy and how we’re protecting our legacy playing at Ellis Park. It’s our home and we needed to protect and defend that legacy.”
Willemse said the Springboks’ composure and tactical adjustments after the break made the difference.
“England are a great side and they put us under pressure,” he said.
“We made some good plans at half-time to nullify that. The aerial game was massive, and I felt we had the edge there.”
The 28-year-old admitted reaching 50 Tests ranks alongside his first Springbok start as one of the proudest moments of his career.
“Playing one Test for your country is special, but playing 50 is a massive milestone,” he said.
“I’m really grateful to my teammates, the management and everyone who has believed in me.”
Willemse was quick to acknowledge the coaches and senior players who helped shape his career after making his Springbok debut as a 20-year-old against Argentina.
He credited former Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber for backing him early, while praising assistant coaches Felix Jones and Mzwandile Stick for helping develop his versatility and high-ball skills.
He also singled out several Springbok greats who mentored him as he learned to master multiple positions.
“I learned from legends of the game like Morne Steyn, Frans Steyn and Willie le Roux,” Willemse said.
“Damian de Allende has always helped me at inside centre. Polly [Handré Pollard] helped me when I played flyhalf and Elton Jantjies also helped me a lot with my kicking.”
Jantjies, who watched Saturday’s match from the stands alongside his mother, was among those Willemse thanked for helping mould him into the player he is today.
