Coach Sandile Ngcobo has pledged that the Blitzboks will rely on their renowned defensive prowess in their pursuit of victory at the Sydney Sevens.
The return of the Sydney Sevens was enthusiastically received by everyone associated in the World Rugby Sevens Series, and Blitzboks head coach Ngcobo will be among those who approach the Allianz Stadium on Friday with a smile.
Not only is the Blitzbok coach pleased with his team’s performance on the training field, but he also relishes the opportunity for his team to demonstrate their skills and, more significantly, their team culture to those watching.
Accountability is crucial for the Blitzboks at the Sydney Sevens
As the squad ethos involves a “never surrender” mentality, it is not surprising that Ngcobo is adamant that a notable defensive effort will be demonstrated.
On the eve of the Sydney Sevens, Ngcobo stated, “Our team culture is to never give up and to be dominant defensively, with each player executing at least 80 percent of their tackles.”
All of the players were reminded of the team’s ethos, and they are eager to uphold it this weekend.
His optimism is bolstered by a productive week of training: “We realized that we didn’t have much to correct outside a few self-inflicted wounds, especially in that quarterfinal game we played.
“We regained our optimism immediately and were able to resume productive work. Therefore, our confidence is high, our bodies feel great, and we eagerly anticipate our first game.”
The physical aspect of Kenya, the team’s first opponent in Pool B, will compel Ngcobo’s players to be resolute, according to him.
“Last week, we performed well but stumbled at a vital juncture, so facing the tough Kenyans in the very first game will certainly get our minds and bodies ready for fight.
“We’ll be fine if we maintain our concentration and avoid creating weak moments. We feel that we must respect the tiny details of the game and prevent them from becoming significant.”
Seven years ago, Ngcobo scored his first try for the Blitzboks at this competition. However, he thinks that individual brilliance will not be the most important factor for his team, and that they will need a team effort to be successful at the Sydney Sevens.
“The margins are small and tactics are also important, and one of these aspects is using the bench or applying scoreboard pressure,” he explained. “Therefore, we will need every player on the bench to contribute and be able to make a difference.”
South Africa won three World Series titles in Australia: in 2008 and 2009 in Adelaide, and in 2017 in Sydney.
Ryan Oosthuizen, Impi Visser, Zain Davids, James Murphy, Siviwe Soyizwapi (captain), Christie Grobbelaar, Shaun Williams, Masande Mtshali, Shilton van Wyk, Darren Adonis, Dalvon Blood, Jaiden Baron, and Ricardo Duartee are the members of the Blitzboks squad.
»Blitzboks will display team culture at the Sydney Sevens«