Feinberg-Mngomezulu, initially criticized for his play in the earlier Johannesburg test, demonstrated a robust comeback that impressed many, including Mallett. On SuperSport’s Final Whistle Presents Side Entry show, Mallett articulated his praise for Sacha's game management which mirrored Pollard’s planned role.
“He picked a team with Pollard in it that looked as though it was the correct one, and then Pollard had to withdraw on Thursday, and Sacha came back in,” Mallett said. “What was very positive was that Sacha played like Pollard. His defence was very good, but he didn’t try to do anything himself.”
Changes didn't stop at fly-half. Rassie Erasmus, the head coach, also made a controversial last-minute swap in the starting front-row, engaging the bench's front-row which sparked worldwide debate. Mallett supported these shifts, highlighting their effectiveness in this crucial test.
The adjustment in the halfback pairing also drew attention. With Grant Williams sidelined due to injury, Cobus Reinach stepped in and, together with Feinberg-Mngomezulu, followed a tight game plan. Mallett commended their disciplined approach which contributed significantly to the team's low penalty count.
“He [Feinberg-Mngomezulu] absolutely just stuck to the game plan, as did Cobus Reinach, who I thought also played nicely, played up his forwards, and played the backs at the right time,” Mallett elaborated. “It was just a very focused performance. Only four penalties against the Springboks – that’s extraordinary in a Test match – and eight against the All Blacks. So only 12 penalties in a game. I mean, the ref did a lot of coaching on the field… but we were good. We were very, very good. “We were excellent without the benefit of getting our normal four or five scrum penalties because of the way the scrum was managed.”
Legendary lock Victor Matfield also joined the discussion, lauding the Springboks' utilization of traditional strengths reminiscent of New Zealand's tactics under coach Dave Rennie. Matfield pointed out the effective use of mauls, a strategy that South Africa had moved away from in recent encounters.
Matfield provided an analysis of the game's dynamics, particularly noting a powerful maul leading to Jesse Kriel’s try. He emphasized the evolving game strategies, indicating a potential resurgence in mauling techniques due to their effectiveness in breaking down defensive setups.
“The All Blacks went back to their DNA, and that’s why they’re so competitive,” Matfield explained. “After the loss, we always just went back to our DNA and what it is: kicking game and then our maul; we haven’t seen a maul in the midfield in the last few months, we’ve only seen four man and we play from there, but maul is coming back.”
As the dust settles, the strategic shifts and standout performances in this test match not only secured a victory but also signaled a possible tactical evolution for the Springboks. Under the scrutiny of experts like Mallett and Matfield, the team's adaptability and resilience continue to be key factors in their success on the international stage.
