Springbok belief and physicality make for world beating mix

PARIS : A record fourth Rugby World Cup showed South Africa's dogged determination, which saw the team dig deep at critical moments.

Few sides have had as bruising a route to World Cup success as the Springboks in this tournament, playing against each of the other top six ranked nations on their way to the podium.

That road, culminating in a 12-11 win over traditional foes New Zealand in Saturday's final at the Stade de France in Paris, but the Boks' tenacity took them over the line when it counted.

They edged three successive knockout stage matches by a single point to claim the Webb Ellis Cup.

The team talked of a responsibility to provide some distraction for their beleaguered South Africa, which is struggling in an economic downturn with heavy unemployment, crime and corruption.

But while that had its place in motivating success, a full-hearted approach on the field ultimately gave them the edge.

"As a South African, as a Springbok, you always believe you are going to win," said centre Jesse Kriel.

South Africa threw themselves wholeheartedly into battle, tackling tenaciously and putting their bodies on the line.

Their defence underpinned the victory, while forward power saw to the points, using their strengths to maximum effect to earn penalties that Handre Pollard duly dispatched.

There was also the confidence of being coached by a group who were both innovative and prepared to take risks, such as gambling on a lack of cover for their backs in the final.

RELIEF

Coach Jacques Nienaber admitted a sense of deliverance.

"Relief is the first word that comes to mind," he said.

"We thought we can't mess this up because we believed from 2018 they had the ability to win the World Cup. I'm relieved for the players, they deserve it," he