Historic win in Japan has Springbok women beaming

It was a night to remember on Saturday as the Springbok women won their first ever Test match on foreign soil, running out 20-10 winners over Japan at the Kumagaya stadium.

The win also sees the Springboks share the series 1-1 after they lost the first Test last week 15-6.

Springbok women coach Stanley Raubenheimer said afterwards the victory was memorable in so many ways, and he especially felt it was a testimony to the group's belief to stick to their plans and processes.

"There are so many emotions after this win, even more so because of the team," said Raubenheimer.

"This was a very emotional tour, a tough one and one where we had some very open and hard conversations with our players. So, I am really happy for them that they could be rewarded by winning, as it means so much to them.

"Also, for the management there is some reward in this. We have been together for a couple of years now and this very first win on the road will be savoured for a long time.

"We had chances in the past – I am thinking of Spain in 2019 and then Wales last year and even Japan last weekend – so to now finally get it over the line means a lot to us as well."

Raubenheimer said the success of the tour could be attributed to the players' refusal to surrender in Kumagaya.

"I think our defence was outstanding today; it was one of the most rewarding defensive efforts in a long time and it probably won us the match. There were many instances where we were under severe pressure, but they chased down Japan and stopped them from scoring.

"It was also very pleasing for us to get over the line three times, especially after so many opportunities went begging last weekend. I thought the tries – especially the two scored by Ayanda Malinga – were exceptional."

Sout