The Springbok Women went down fighting in a 23-19 loss to Italy in their final match of the 2024 WXV 2 tournament at the Athlone Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday.
South Africa went into the WXV2 clash as underdogs, having lost their previous fixtures against Italy by 25 and 18 points respectively.
On the day, however, the Bok Women showed more intent and tenacity – particularly after the break – and came within one score of securing a famous win.
A tough battle, but not our day. The #BokWomen fall short, showing heart and determination until the final whistle.#MakeItCount #ETTIG #WXV pic.twitter.com/GfSMm6wt83
— SA Women's Rugby (@WomenBoks) October 12, 2024
Swys de Bruin’s charges made an early statement at the scrum and maul, and when Babalwa Latsha (tighthead prop) crashed over the tryline in the seventh minute, they were well in control of the contest.
But the complexion of the game changed after Chumisa Qawe (inside centre) was shown a yellow card for a high tackle in the 15th minute, and the hosts were forced to defend with 14 players.
Italy converted their chances deep in South African territory, with outside centre Michela Sillari dotting down and prop Silvia Turani scoring a brace. If not for two wayward conversion attempts by Sillari, the visitors may have led by more than 10 points at half-time.
De Bruin deployed his ‘Bomb Squad’ in the 46th minute, and the reserves made an immediate impact at the set pieces and collisions. Italy repelled South Africa for a brief period, before Aseza Hele (replacement loose forward) powered over the tryline.
Nadine Roos (flyhalf) provided the spark for the South Africa’s third try, counter-attacking from deep and finding plenty of team-mates in support.
The sweeping run was eventually finished by Ayanda Malinga (wing), who rounded the cover defence to score under the posts. Roos proceeded to kick her team into a 19-17 lead.
Italy regained the advantage in the 63rd minute. South African replacement scrumhalf Unam Tose was sent to the sin bin for a reckless tackle, and Italy centre Beatrice Rigoni slotted a penalty goal from right in front.
The Bok Women battled to exit their half during Tose’s absence, and conceded yet another penalty within kicking distance. Rignoi extended Italy’s lead to six points.
With time running out, South Africa marched downfield and created a series of opportunities, but ultimately failed to control the ball at the crucial moment.
Scorers:
Springbok Women 19 (7) – Tries: Babalwa Latsha, Aseza Hele, Ayanda Mailnga. Conversions: Nadine Roos (2).
Italy 23 (17) – Tries: Silvia Turani (2), Michela Sillari. Conversion: Sillari. Penalty goals: Beatrice Rigoni (2).
SA Rugby