Springbok captain Siya Kolisi said his team’s statement victory over France on Saturday night was special for him in his 100th appearance for his country, but incredible for his team.
The Boks beat the French 32-17 despite playing the second half a player down — lock Lood de Jager was dubiously red-carded for a high challenge on a French player.
“We prepared for the event of a red card, the coaching staff warned that the intensity of the game could produce that scenario, and it did,” Kolisi said.
“But we kept on working, and I am so proud of the boys for how we fought to the end.”
Kolisi said the win capped the special milestone of him becoming the ninth Springbok to play 100 Tests.
“It is special for me. It means a lot to me and my family. I can’t take credit for everything I achieved because there have been so many people along the way who have helped me.
“I am nothing without the boys. I am so grateful for the way we fought and how we pulled it through.”
Kolisi said the win and his 100th cap showed that success is possible for anyone determined to raise themselves out of difficult circumstances.
“This victory is for the people who grew up in similar circumstances to me (in the township of Zwide in the Eastern Cape). I want people to know that it is possible.
“And it is not just me. Other guys in my team have made it through difficulties. I want South Africans to know that anything is possible as long as they put their heads down and listen to the people who are helping them.
Player of the Match, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, said the team had done their best to make the day special for the captain.
“The first half was what we thought it was going to be at the Stade de France – 14-13 at half time, it was tough. We were getting good rewards from our contestable kicking game, but we weren’t getting points on the board.
“But I’m just so proud that everyone stuck in and made it special for big Siya.”
Feinberg-Mngomezulu scored a second-half try that went a long way to clinching the win.
“It’s good fun,” he said. “I’m part of such an incredible team. Playing for my country on a Saturday – it’s my dream. It’s all of our dreams. These little things (awards) don’t mean much. I’m just happy that we won with 15 points here today to make Siya’s day.”
