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The Junior Springboks concluded their European trip in a strong manner on Friday night, delivering a brave and strategically precise display to defeat Ireland 32-22 in Cork. Amid freezing temperatures, rain, and strong winds, the South African Under-19 Academy squad demonstrated remarkable resilience to wrap up the tour with a decisive win.

Competing in continuous rain and strong winds, the young South Africans relied on their traditional strengths, showcasing a formidable forward performance that overwhelmed the home team. Three tries from the forwards and a penalty try in the second half demonstrated their superiority in the front line, as Ireland found it difficult to manage the visitors’ driving maul.

Head coach Kevin Foote commended his team’s determination following a tough week after losing to France.

That was merely a courageous display from our young players; I believed they demonstrated remarkable resilience under extremely difficult circumstances,” Foote remarked. “Their mindset throughout the week, since we departed France, has been nothing short of outstanding. We simply embraced the weather and concentrated on what we could influence.

Foote implemented substantial rotational adjustments for the match against Ireland and was particularly impressed by the leadership demonstrated before and throughout the game.

“Our leadership was exceptional,” he stated. “Guided by Riley Norton and Esethu Mnebelele, Vusi Moyo performed exceptionally well at the back, while another captain, ‘Rambo’ Kubheka, had a significant influence coming off the bench. Our experienced players welcomed the newcomers effectively, and truly, being part of this team has been remarkable.”

Foote highlighted the significance of the European tour in the overall growth of the South African Under-20 program.

This section is extremely significant for our path as a new team,” he stated. “Touring two countries and performing under these tough circumstances is precisely what we required. Our group once again rose to the occasion, and the backline is beginning to develop unity. We came here in search of those bonds, and we witnessed them on Friday night.

Captain Riley Norton, who transitioned from lock to blindside flanker for the game, delivered an outstanding performance. He controlled the tackles, disrupted the Irish lineout, and contributed to the forwards’ momentum under challenging conditions.

That was likely the most challenging match I’ve ever faced, particularly in terms of the weather,” Norton remarked. “The wind and rain were unyielding, yet we understood that we had to adapt to these circumstances. We discussed throughout the week the importance of demonstrating the usual South African resilience and perseverance.

Our forwards were incredible, that maul was impossible to stop, we dominated in the physical contest, and showed courage in defense, all of which were crucial in achieving the victory.

Norton credited the team’s significant progress to the insights gained from their defeat against France.

There was a unique atmosphere and complete dedication to the physical challenges,” he stated. “We discovered how to face the pressure directly, and to recover quickly, which truly reflects the spirit of this team.

The win, secured against a formidable Irish team and in front of an enthusiastic local audience, has boosted the Junior Springboks’ morale as they work on their preparations for next year’s Under-20 schedule.

This tour has been incredibly beneficial for our development as a new band,” Norton said. “We’re going back home with the knowledge that we’ve made a strong impression.

The South African Under-19 team leaves Dublin on Sunday night and is set to arrive in Johannesburg early Monday, after which they will travel to their individual home provinces.