The Springboks showed no mercy in Durban, dismantling a hapless Welsh side 43-0 to seal their Nations Championship campaign. Steve Tandy's team were left reeling from another heavy defeat at the hands of South Africa, with the aggregate score now standing at a staggering 116-0 in favour of the world champions.
This was Wales' second consecutive loss against the Springboks, and it marked a worrying trend for the Welsh coaching staff. In November, they suffered their heaviest ever home defeat, losing 73-0 to a rampant South African side that inflicted 11 tries on them. It's clear that Tandy's team have been struggling to cope with the physical challenge posed by the Springboks.
Despite the lopsided scoreline, Tandy praised his players for staying in the fight, but he acknowledged that there are areas where they need to improve, particularly at the breakdown. "South Africa are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to their physicality and defensive set-piece," he noted. "We know we have work to do if we're going to compete with the best." He also expressed frustration that Wales failed to capitalise on their few chances, with too many knock-ons and missed opportunities thwarting their attack.
Wales captain Dewi Lake echoed his coach's sentiments, but he was quick to point out that there were positives to take from the game. "We've come a long way since our last outing against South Africa," he said. "We knew it wouldn't be easy, but we gave it everything and left nothing on the pitch." Lake praised his teammates for their hard work and dedication, but he also acknowledged that they have a lot to learn from this defeat.