White adopts German approach
8 Jun 2006
Springbok coach Jake White has taken a leaf out German soccer coach Jürgen Klinsmann’s book.
Klinsmann, says White, adopted a defence orientated strategy, whereby not losing became a prerequisite, and it could bring the German’s glory on home soil in a month’s time.
It is a philosophy he hopes will bring glory to the Boks at the 2007 Rugby World Cup too. Luckily for White he will have a preview of the concept when the German’s take on the world at home in the Soccer World Cup starting this weekend.
“When Jürgen took over he decided the Germans were not going to lose anymore. He immediately got his team’s defence in order. Germany then started drawing their matches; shaking off their culture of losing,” he told Die Volksblad.
“Now the Germans are, with their defence system in place and their attacking play much improved as a result of greater self-confidence, among the favourites to win the World Cup.”
White though is taking no chances and has recalled several stalwarts for the first Test against Scotland in Durban. Crucially, Os du Randt returns in the front-row, while only Wynand Olivier lock Johann Muller have yet to earn a Test cap. Both are included on the bench.
Springbok captain John Smit is thrilled with the preparation this week. “There was no Test atmosphere before last week’s match against the World XV,” he said. “This week’s training was completely different. The team is prepared and it feels as if everything has received attention.”
“We realise the only way to prepare for the World Cup is to be successful. The match on Saturday will be a tough test because the Scots have already beaten England and France this year,” Smit added.
113 Comments
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8 Jun 2006, 14:58 pm
Only a pleasure Vinnie.
8 Jun 2006, 14:58 pm
Ta.
8 Jun 2006, 14:58 pm
My refresh knop is so stadig soos Breytie (met nuwe haarstyl)
8 Jun 2006, 15:05 pm
When a wing’s best attribute is his ‘experience’, it means that he’s slow.
8 Jun 2006, 15:15 pm
Mossel, then “inexperience” = fast. “Fast” does not have to equal experience. “Experience” can mean a good speed and good ability to read the game.
8 Jun 2006, 17:59 pm
WC kicking off here in Munich tomorrow! The streets are full of soccer-mad fans from all over the world, and FINALLY some warm weather today! Germany have no chance of winning it this year, even the germans are supporting Brazil as their “2nd choice”! Official Favourites are Brazil, Argentina, Italy & England. Will keep you okes updated daily!
9 Jun 2006, 02:32 am
Oh thanks HH, that is exactly what we were afraid of – now say slowly with me: “This is a RUGBY site…”:-)
No, only kidding, anything is better than work…keep the info rolling
And what about the Frogs for the WC?
9 Jun 2006, 02:35 am
Watch Frogs do a double:
In 2006 the Soccer WC (by accident) and in 2007 they will win the WC of the “Odd shaped Ball” by one over ABs in the final – That is what my bone says…Keo?
9 Jun 2006, 03:14 am
Post 13 na the all whites got thrashed 4 zip by da brazil boy’s .
9 Jun 2006, 06:16 am
Come on Ghana do if for Africa!!!!
Even though my money is on Argentina, Brazil, England or Spain to take out the cup.
9 Jun 2006, 08:41 am
Ok, so what happens in this situation, JAKE WHITE
SA vs Australia, Australia score two early tries! Your thinking along with your soldiers are too defensive minded. You make the assumption that tries come out of thin air, which you have done for the past two seasons.
Do you really think the Australians, New Zealanders, English and French haven’t sat down and made plans to counter our defensive??!! If that’s your arrogant thinking, then…God be with you!
9 Jun 2006, 10:30 am
well said RugbyStudent. Hwy not use Brazil’s game plan, they will score goals and win the tournament by attacking and not defending. The All Blacks and Crusaders spring to mind, run the ball and you will score tries…..
9 Jun 2006, 10:46 am
Hup Holland!
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