Foote delighted as Junior Boks send early world title warning
REACTION: “The players showed great intent from the start.” That was the biggest takeaway for Junior Springboks coach Kevin Foote after his side stormed to a 104-7 victory over Uruguay to launch their World Rugby U20 Championship title defence in Tbilisi on Saturday.
While the scoreline grabbed the headlines, Foote was equally pleased with the intent, energy and cohesion his side displayed after months of preparation, believing it laid the perfect platform for the challenges that lie ahead.
After months of preparation, head coach Kevin Foote was delighted to see his side hit the ground running.
*Article continues below…
Exceptional Junior Boks launch title defence in stylehttps://t.co/3OYUUQwO0U
— Rugby365 (@rugby365com) June 27, 2026
“It’s awesome to finally get going after a long period of preparation,” said Foote.
“The players showed great intent from the start, and it’s pleasing to begin the tournament with a strong performance.”
South Africa led 50-0 at half-time and only conceded after the final hooter had sounded, with wings Jordan Steenkamp and flanker Risima Khosa both completing hat-tricks in a ruthless attacking display.
Despite the lopsided scoreline, Foote praised Uruguay for making life difficult in key areas.
“Uruguay were very competitive at the breakdown and also challenged us in the lineouts,” he said.
“The conditions weren’t easy with the wind, but I thought we adapted well, kept the ball in hand and played with good energy and purpose.”
The Junior Boks displayed the attacking cohesion and intensity that has been a focus throughout their preparations, but Foote was equally encouraged by the depth within his squad.
“There were plenty of strong performances and a number of players really put their hands up for selection,” he said.
“That’s exactly what you want in a competition like this, where the whole squad will be needed.”
Foote also acknowledged Uruguay’s determination after they continued to battle until the end and earned a late consolation try.
“Full credit to Uruguay for finishing the game the way they did,” he said.
“Scoring at the end shows their determination and spirit, and that’s something we expected from them.”
With a demanding pool schedule ahead, the SA U20 coach confirmed squad rotation would be an important part of South Africa’s title defence.
“That’s the nature of a World Championship,” Foote said.
“We have a very good squad, and we’ll give other players opportunities in the next game. The focus is on continuing to build and improve.”
The Junior Boks now turn their attention to hosts Georgia, who suffered a heartbreaking 24-25 defeat to Wales in their tournament opener.
“You can feel the energy and passion in Georgia already,” Foote said.
“They’ll be hurting after that loss and will come back strongly. We know they’ll bring a big physical challenge, so we’ll need to be ready for that.”
Register your interest to receive priority updates on RWC27 ticket releases. Don't miss out, stay in the loop!
