Springboks thrash Italy 66–7 in Turin in Nations Championship opener

The Springboks opened their November Nations Championship campaign with a commanding 66–7 victory over Italy in Turin, according to IOL. The result showed off both their power and the growing depth in the squad.

A first-half blitz settles the match

The match was effectively decided before half-time. The Boks scored six unanswered tries to lead 45–0 at the break, and five of those came in a storm lasting about 25 minutes. IOL described a mix of brutal mauls and sharp handling that denied Italy front-foot ball and territory.

Malcolm Marx scored two first-half tries from mauls. Jasper Wiese made hard carries, and when Wilco Louw came on early in the second half, the Bok scrum moved forward.

The second half was less polished. The Boks won that period 21–7, and the report pointed to a slight drop in clinical edge. Coach Rassie Erasmus noted that the team expects higher standards in the games ahead.

Halfbacks and new faces shine

Fly-half Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu was singled out for a strong all-round display. He scored a solo try, produced a 50–22 kick and converted his own try from the right touchline. IOL said he kicked well from all angles, although he had a few soft moments in the second half because of overeagerness.

Scrumhalf Morné van den Berg controlled the game with his passing and box-kicking. Ethan Hooker, a 23-year-old winger, dominated in the air and added a late try. Substitute flanker Paul de Villiers made an immediate impact off the bench.

IOL said this showed the Boks’ depth remains strong despite their recent defeat against Australia.

Lineout holds up after late change

Lock Salmaan Moerat was lost to back spasms right before kick-off. Lood de Jager came in late, and with Ruan Nortje he ran what IOL called a faultless lineout, so the Boks lost nothing in the physical contest.

IOL also noted that the pack had dominated the All Blacks in the last three Tests of the RGR Series, and that it carried that form into Turin.

What comes next for the Boks

South African supporters can now look ahead to the Springboks’ clashes against France and Ireland. The France match is set for the Stade de France. According to IOL, the coaching staff have specific work-ons from the second half to address before then.

The squad will want to carry the sharpness of the first 40 minutes into those tougher tests.

This story is based on reporting by IOL.