Rugby Championship

Boks expect huge contest against 'passionate' Pumas

2018-08-21 20:04

Cape Town - The Springbok squad arrived in Buenos Aires on Monday evening and started their match preparations on Tuesday in the build up to Saturday's rematch with the Pumas in Mendoza.

The South Africans defeated Argentina 34-21 in the opening fixture of the Rugby Championship in Durban last weekend, scoring six tries in the process to gain an important bonus-point.

The Springboks completed their post-match recovery in Durban on Sunday after the physical battle with the South Americans, before flying out to Argentina early on Monday morning.

READ: Beast, Franks set for Test milestones

The Boks will continue with their training in the Argentinean capital until Thursday, with the squad set to fly out to Mendoza on Friday where they will wrap up preparations for the big clash.

On Tuesday afternoon, Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick and No 8 Warren Whiteley spoke to local media in Buenos Aires.

Both of them cautioned that the Pumas will be a very determined side at home and that the South Africans will have to improve on their performance in Durban.

"We know the Pumas are a passionate side who love playing in front of their own supporters, so we can expect a huge battle from them here on their home turf," said Stick.

According to Whiteley, the Springboks are bracing themselves for a massive physical battle against the Pumas.

"They have a very physical back and explosive backs and I would describe them as a very balanced side. Although we won the contest in Durban, we all know we have to improve and play much better against a quality side on Saturday," said Whiteley.

The team had another recovery session on Tuesday morning and that was followed by their first field session later in the afternoon.

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus will announce his team on Thursday afternoon.

Saturday's match kicks off at 21:10 (SA time).

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