The Springbok Women’s historic victory over Italy at the Rugby World Cup in York on Sunday has sparked both emotion and determination within the squad, with flyhalf Libbie Janse van Rensburg insisting that the journey is far from over.
The 29-24 triumph secured the Bok Women a place in the quarter-finals for the first time, while also earning them a maiden win over Italy and a spot in the top 10 of the World Rugby rankings. In one of the most powerful moments after the final whistle, Janse van Rensburg embraced long-serving captain Nolusindiso Booi, repeating: “We did this, we did this.”
Janse van Rensburg, who was named player of the match in the quarter-finals, reflected on the emotions of the team.
“We are still feeling very good about ourselves, but suddenly there is that added feeling of us going ever further. We desperately wanted to make it into the top eight and now that we have, we want more. That game against Italy, as important as it was, was not our final act, we want more, and we are not done yet.” said Janse van Rensburg.
South Africa will face France in their final Pool D match at Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton on Sunday, with both teams already assured of a place in the playoffs after beating Brazil and Italy. The clash will determine who tops the group.
Janse van Rensburg said their previous training session against France in Europe gave the team belief that they could compete with the world’s best. “We realised we were not far off during that session and it’s amazing how things changed around so sudden for us.”
“We were always knocking, and now the door has been opened. The talk in the camp is that we can now get past the last eight and into the semi-finals, and I honestly don’t think it is a pipe dream.” said Janse van Rensburg.
Despite her individual recognition, Janse van Rensburg was quick to deflect praise to her teammates and support staff. “Our team doctor and physio on the side of the field were encouraging me all the time, telling me to stay in the game as I am doing well.”
I was getting really tired at that time but kept going, and I am so happy that I did. So many players worked so hard to get to this point and we were the fortunate ones to be on the field when history happened.”
The playmaker also highlighted the culture shift within the squad since their last World Cup campaign.
“We had a poor World Cup last time, but that team was too inexperienced and the environment was not great. This time we all know what we can do, we believe in each other and our coaches and management really created a positive environment for us. The players also get along well, and it all delivers a happy camp.”
“To add to that, the support from sponsors and the public alike has been amazing. We really feel like we belong, and we now want to reward those who invested in us.” concluded Janse van Rensburg
IOL Sport
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