Victor Matfield believes South Africa can lift this year’s Webb Ellis Trophy – Rugby World Cup news
As the countdown of the forthcoming 2011 Rugby World Cup has started with less than hundred days remaining in the kick off, the debates and claims of new champs are underway. South African vice-skipper, Victor Matfield, is sure his squad can defend the title
successfully in New Zealand. Matfield told the media in an interview today on June 2, that his team is hopeful to win the trophy kicking off in September.
South Africa has won the Rugby World Cup twice in the six international events that have been held so far. They secured their first title in 1995 defeating arch rivals All Blacks in the final. The same show-piece was hosted by the South Africans and it was
real milestone for the Reeboks as they made a comeback in international rugby just three years before in 1992. They had missed two earlier installations of the Rugby World Cups in 1987 and 1991 due to an international ban by IRB.
The Reeboks claimed a second major victory during the last World Cup, held in France, as they outclassed the glamorous team of England. South Africa defeated the English team by 15-6 at Stade France stadium, in Paris.
Most of the South African players are engaged in Super Rugby season, being played among the SANZAR members. Three South African derbies including, Sharks, Bulls and Stormers are playing well in the championship.
Talking to media, Victor Matfield said that current good form of players in the ongoing Super Rugby season would help the national team in the upcoming RWC. He added, “Look at the form of the top players. It’s a major plus that the Stormers, Sharks and Bulls
are still in the running for Super Rugby playoffs. Look at the major injuries. At the moment it’s just Juan Smith that maybe won’t make it. The other guys all have less serious injuries. It’s probably also a positive as it is allowing them to get some rest,”
Matfield further said that, “We realised again after last year’s victory over England how we should play and what works for us.” The South Africans are considered tough contestants along with New Zealand and Australia for this year’s biggest event.
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