2019 Rugby World Cup losing finalist Anthony Watson - Springboks were in a better emotional state
South Africa's centre Damian De Allende (R) tackles England's wing Anthony Watson during the Japan 2019 Rugby World Cup final match between England and South Africa at the International Stadium Yokohama in Yokohama on November 2, 2019. Picture: Odd Andersen / AFP
Image: Odd Andersen / AFP
It seems like almost a lifetime ago, but when the Springboks won the 2019 Rugby World Cup, it began an era of Springboks domination, and one player who was involved in that historic match has recalled what a pivotal moment that was.
That player is England’s Anthony Watson. A veteran of over 50 appearances for England, the winger also scored 23 tries for his country.
His crowning glory came in that 2019 final, which the Springboks dominated to run out 32-12 victors.
Having already hung up his boots last year at the age of 30 due to injury, Watson still looks back at that match with absolute clarity.
Lessons from a World Cup Final: Emotional Preparedness and Seizing Opportunities
“South Africa were the better team on the day, and they deserved to win the World Cup that year. In terms of lessons, we probably went into that game as favourites,” Watson told IOL via Grosvenor Sport, who offer odds for the 2026 Six Nations.
“I think given the level of expectation, we could have done a better job. I think we knew what South Africa were going to throw at us, but I think that they were emotionally in a better place than we were.
“They were in a better emotional state than we were. That's the biggest lesson I get. I've taken from it, and also just about taking your opportunities. You assume as a player that you're going to get back there and appear in other finals. But you may never have the opportunity to.”
As it turned out, Watson would never play in another World Cup match again, but that final, even though he was on the losing side, remains one of the highlights of his career.