Junior Boks pass pressure test

 

The South African Under-20 outfit won their second match 39-28 to take their first-ever whitewash in Argentina in three visits.

 

Theron said that the way his side had dealt with the unique challenges posed by playing in Argentina was very encouraging.

 

"It was very tough, we knew with conditions being like they are here in Argentina and the crowd. I think sometimes we need this pressure

 

"It is the third time we have come here since 2011 and the first time we have been unbeaten so we are very positive about it and I think the guys really worked hard for it," he said.

 

Having won their opening encounter by just three points the Junior Boks were more convincing in their second outing, although they had to hold off a resurgent Argentina side in the second half in Rosario.

 

"What they proved is that this team can grind it out, they were under pressure from time to time and just kept on fighting and working hard to come out on top," said Theron.

 

Having led 26-5 at half-time, the Junior Boks were put under pressure in the second half by an Argentina side with five more players on the bench than their opponents.

 

However, Theron said that it was a good test of his team's resolve, which brought out plenty of character.

 

"Argentina went into the match with 28 players, which they didn't communicate to us before the game. I am very glad that we stuck to our guns and went with just the 23 as it gave us that challenge to fight it out.

 

"In hindsight I am very happy about it because it put extra pressure on us so in the end it was a very good win for us," he added.