For the Blitzboks in Sydney, accountability is essential

Siviwe Soyizwapi, captain of the Blitzboks, feels that the brutal but honest analysis of the team’s performance in Hamilton will assist them in achieving a more positive response this weekend at the Sydney Sevens.

According to Soyizwapi, the Springbok Sevens squad will have a positive response when they take to the pitch at Allianz Stadium on Friday for the Sydney Sevens, as a result of this week’s rigorous, but honest, and much-needed debriefing after their loss in Hamilton.

“After that, we can look each other in the eye again, as everyone took responsibility during our post-tournament analysis,” stated Soyizwapi.

“We examined the events in Hamilton, accepted accountability, and assumed responsibility. The players had to accept responsibility; it was evident from the reviews that we neglected the system and that the errors we committed were our fault.

“Once we accepted that, we were able to look each other in the eye again, and we can now approach Sydney with a positive outlook.”

Soyizwapi, who has scored 139 tries in 232 outings for the men in green and gold, revealed that they took the advice of Blitzboks coaches Sandile Ngcobo and Philip Snyman regarding what needs to be improved.

When a regroup is necessary, our coaches have been there before and know what they are talking about. It was vital to acknowledge your faults and then move on.”

The veteran of 44 World Rugby Sevens Series competitions believes comments regarding his teammates’ size are inappropriate.

Soyizwapi stated, “The Blitzboks may not be the largest team physically, but this has always been the case.”

“Some of the so-called smaller players have led this club to tremendous heights in the past, and those now on the roster will do the same. The size of your heart is what matters, and we must demonstrate it this weekend.”

Murphy flies to Australia to aid the ailing Blitzboks.

The Blitzboks captain is migrating to the forwards, resulting in less game time than when he played on the wing and spent the most of his time on the field.

“I need to get used to it, but I don’t mind doing it,” he remarked.

When I am not on the field, our team’s other strong leaders take charge. With Selvyn (Davids) being replaced by James (Murphy) as of last weekend, I will be returning to the wing position for this tournament, therefore I will likely see more playing time.”

Whether he is playing or not, the Blitzboks skipper has the same attitude.

“Whatever the team looks like on the pitch, they must represent the logo and the culture of the squad. We must demonstrate this beginning with our first encounter against Kenya and continuing through our final contest.”

Friday, January 27: BLITZBOKS’ POOL FIXTURES AT SYDNEY SEVENS (SA TIMES)

06h06: Kenya

Saturday 28 January

00h44: Uruguay
New Zealand at 06:49


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