The Jantjies factor behind Willemse's growth
REACTION: Springbok utility back Damian Willemse had plenty of praise for Elton Jantjies after Saturday’s 24-8 victory over the Wallabies in Sydney on Saturday.
Willemse was given the all-important No.10 role for the clash after Jantjies (hand) and Handre Pollard (knee) were both ruled out with injuries.
The Stormers star, who normally plays at fullback, handled the pressure well and he played an integral role in South Africa’s first win against the Wallabies in Australia in nine years.
After the match, Willemse opened up on the role Jantjies played in that success.
“It wasn’t really that tough. Slotting in [at flyhalf] was a bit of a different role,” Willemse told reporters.
“I have been getting reps there and I enjoyed it.
“Credit to all the coaching staff and the guys who helped me throughout the week.
“Elton was massive – he made a big contribution.”
Willemse added: “Elton is an absolute team guy. The way he helped me when I came in as a young guy in 2018 has been amazing.
“He has helped me a lot with my kicking and I have to give a lot of credit to him after the performance I had.
“It’s just the way he helped me prepare and the way he kept me calm. It was just selfless, so hats off to him.”
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Backline balance
The Springboks looked much better on attack in Sydney and they outscored their opponents by four tries to one.
Willemse was key to that, but he also gave credit to some of his teammates.
“I think the balance was pretty good,” said Willemse.
“We suffocated the Wallabies and we had a lot of territory in their half.
“We had good possession and we converted that into scoreboard pressure.
“We ran the ball when we had an overlap and I think the tactical kicking from Wille [le Roux] and Jaden [Hendrikse] was outstanding.”
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