Coach Andy Farrell says Ireland are relishing the chance to measure themselves against the “best in the world” in Dublin on Saturday.
Fresh off a record 46-19 victory over Australia, Farrell said the Springboks’ form speaks for itself.
“They’re the best in the world. Everyone’s talking about them and the type of rugby they’re playing,” he said. “A rich vein of form and rightly so – they’ve played some brilliant stuff.”
With South Africa unbeaten on their November tour after dispatching Japan, France and Italy – the latter two despite first-half red cards – Farrell said the Bok clash is exactly what Ireland require.
“You always want to test yourself against the best. Certainly at this moment in time, South Africa are definitely the best and we relish that opportunity to see where we’re at.”
RECENT MEETINGS: Ireland have the Boks’ number
Although Ireland have won four of the last five matches between the sides, Farrell stressed that last weekend’s performance against the Wallabies won’t be enough.
“I like the way we got out of our own way,” he added. “Last week after a couple of errors we went within ourselves … this week we didn’t, even with mistakes. That’s the most pleasing part.”
EBEN: Ireland fixture stood out for Boks
Farrell praised the Boks’ distinctive strengths.
“It’s their energy and enthusiasm,” he said. “It’s driven by their line-speed defence, the breakdown, the set-piece. They know their own DNA, but they can add a few tricks with the type of personnel they have.”
He also acknowledged the challenge of keeping up with the world champions’ resilience, noting their comeback win over France as “especially eye-catching”.
MORE: Stick gives clarity on Sous hearing
Photo: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images
The post Farrell: Boks have been brilliant appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
