Am: 'Defenders need to be smarter'

The Springboks need to be a little smarter in defence if they want to secure back-to-back wins over All Blacks, said centre Lukhanyo Am.

South Africa retained the top spot in the Rugby Championship after claiming an incredible 31-27 win over New Zealand last weekend at Ellis Park.

The side produced a massive comeback after trailing 17-27 in the last 15 minutes of the Round Three clash.

While it was certainly a thrilling encounter, the Springboks’ usual solid defence was an area of concern at Ellis Park.

Under the guidance of defence coach Jerry Flannery individual errors, with players coming out of line, highlighted defensive frailties and saw All Blacks score four tries – including a brace by wing Caleb Clarke – in the first 51 minutes.

Speaking to reporters at the hotel in Cape Town, Am admitted that decision-making on defence was the culprit behind the ineffective defence and added that it needs to improve ahead of the rematch against All Blacks at Cape Town Stadium.

“We know that New Zealand is a skilful side, from No.1 to No.15, so at times, we as defenders need to be smarter, when we are not structured defence,” said Am.

“At times, we are being challenged when we don’t have the right personnel in the defensive line.

“We just have to make better decisions when it comes to that.

“On the flip side, our defence has been pretty amazing this season, as well as over the years.

“It’s given us a lot of turnover opportunities from putting teams under pressure.

“So we will stick to what we are good at. Hopefully, we just make better decisions.”

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— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) September 4, 2024

The Boks’ strength  

Am fronting the media conference is an indicator that the centre might be in the line-up when head coach Rassie Erasmus names his team on Thursday morning.

With Am in the starting XV, it could mean that Jesse Kriel will get some rest after clocking up loads of game time this season.

However, given Kriel’s incredible form Bok management might be tempted to move the to wing with Kurt-Lee Arendse out of action due to a concussion he sustained last week at Ellis Park.

Both Am and Kriel are pivotal figures in the Springbok’s defensive system, while Kriel could provide the team with a more robust physical presence out wide.

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When asked about the ray of changes and players having to cover more than one position, Am revealed it is a valuable component in the Springboks set-up.

“What we have is special as a group.

“It shows what we have been building and how much clarity each player has with his role.

“Making moves [from one position to another] or shifting between games is not as stressful, everyone knows where to cover.

“It is a strength of ours to have that versatile.”

Having played against the All Blacks on a couple of occasions, Am is very cautious not to underestimate the All Blacks.

He stated it is going to be a difficult outing as the teams lock horns for their second test.

“You can never write New Zealand off,” said Am.

“They are a quality side. We know this game will be even tougher.

“Playing teams back-to-back can be even harder. You get a few pictures so you know what’s coming.

“So it will be more intense, but we back the preparation we’ve done this week.

“We will go out there and accept the challenge.”

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— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) September 4, 2024