SA warn England of a backlash
ENGLAND have been warned to prepare themselves for an almighty South African backlash when the two sides collide at Twickenham at the weekend.
The Springboks slipped to a surprise 21-17 defeat to Scotland at Murrayfield on Saturday, despite scoring the game’s only try.
It was far from ideal preparation for the weekend showdown with Martin Johnson’s men, who have enjoyed a hugely encouraging autumn programme.
But hooker Bismarck Du Plessis said: “We always pick ourselves up for England. It’s going to be a great game to play at Twickenham. Playing against England, in England, with a full Twickenham – we’re looking forward to that.”
While South Africa lost their penultimate November Test, England ensured they recorded back-to-back wins by overcoming Samoa 26-13.
Converted winger Matt Banahan shone at outside-centre, scoring a try and impressing in a new-look partnership with club colleague Shontayne Hape. Banahan, whose previous five England caps had come as a winger, hopes he has answered critics who doubted his value as a Test No13.