Schalk Burger demands ruthlessness in Rugby World Cup semi-final
Saturday 24 October 2015 15:22, UK
Schalk Burger says South Africa must take their opportunities against Rugby World Cup semi-final opponents New Zealand on Saturday.
The two southern hemisphere giants collide at Twickenham, with South Africa one victory away from reaching a final that looked so unlikely when they lost their opening game of the tournament to Japan.
Standing in their way, though, are reigning world champions New Zealand, with the winners tackling Australia or Argentina back at Twickenham next weekend.
"It didn't start too rosy for us, and the weeks afterwards against Samoa and Scotland were probably the toughest we've had as a group together," Springboks flanker Burger said.
"There is a lot of credit there for the coaching staff and the senior players in the team also took ownership. The only way you can take ownership is if you play well.
"I think [New Zealand captain] Richie McCaw has won more Test matches than I've played, almost, so it's pretty hard to compete against guys who never seem to lose.
"Again, I think they're a great side, but within our team there is quite a lot of belief. We've put them under pressure in the past. The big thing about them is that their attack is phenomenal.
"They back their execution and skill-set, so they put you under more pressure than any other team in the world.
"When we have beaten them, it starts with defence, not letting them have any tempo on the ball, trying to slow them down, but if we do get opportunities, we have to use all of them."
