Stick disappointed with SA A result: 'We had a game plan that we didn't execute well in 1st half'

South Africa A coach Mzwandile Stick and captain Thomas du Toit expressed their disappointment after a disjointed display saw them lose 28-14 to Munster in Cork on Thursday night. 

AS IT HAPPENED | Munster v SA A

The hosts were full value for their win as they outscored SA A by four tries to two. They put South Africa to the sword with some slick backline moves and an impressive high-tempo game despite the driving Cork rain.  

Speaking after the match, Stick gave credit to Munster for adapting better in the rain.

"They played the conditions well and they used it to their advantage," said Stick.

"We knew if we gave them soft entries into the 22, they would use it and there were chances that didn't go our way. But I am proud of the boys for fighting until the end.

"In summary, we had a game plan that we didn't execute well in the first half, and we also gave them soft penalties, and it cost us."

Stick added that the result could have been different had a few chances gone their way, most notably when winger Suleiman Hartzenberg almost scored in the 55th minute. Replays showed the Stormers flyer had a foot in touch before he dotted down in the corner.

"But I'm sure the youngsters will learn from this," the SA A coach added.

Stick said he was satisfied with the impact his bench made in the second stanza: "Credit to those guys, the bench brought massive energy. We may not have been on the right side of the scoreboard, but these young players showed their warrior mindset. We played in front a of passionate sold-out crowd, and that is also something the players will learn from."

Meanwhile, skipper Du Toit said the fact that they only had a few days to train for the match proved problematic.

"We are not making excuses - the team had minimal