Damian Willemse Shines As Springboks Humble All Blacks In Wellington

When Damian Willemse stepped onto the field in Wellington, few could have predicted just how commanding his performance would be. By the final whistle, the Springboks had crushed the All Blacks 43–10, and Willemse had secured the Player of the Match award with a display that was both ruthless and heartfelt.

 A Backline in Full Flow

The Springboks’ backline has been a point of debate in recent months, but Saturday night silenced the critics. Willemse linked up brilliantly with midfield partner Canan Moodie, cutting through New Zealand’s defence with precision and composure. At the heart of it all was Rassie Erasmus’ tactical call to pair Willemse with Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, the young fly-half earning just his second Test start.

Willemse credited the coaching staff for knitting the unit together. “We had a lot of experience today in our backs, even with some changes. It showed in how we executed,” he said, pointing to seasoned campaigners like Cobus Reinach and Cheslin Kolbe, who steadied the team alongside rising stars.

A Match Played in Tribute

In a deeply emotional moment, Willemse dedicated his Man of the Match performance to former Springbok fullback Bevin Fortuin, who tragically passed away days earlier at the age of 46. Fortuin, a Bloemfontein favourite who played eight Tests for South Africa, collapsed during a Rhinos training session.

“That performance was for Bevin Fortuin as well as coach Rassie and the rest of our coaching staff,” Willemse said. The statement resonated with fans, many of whom took to social media to share condolences and praise the team’s tribute.

Social Media Action

On X (formerly Twitter), South African supporters hailed Willemse’s leadership and composure, with one fan writing: “Damian Willemse is proving he’s the heartbeat of this Bok backline. Bevin Fortuin would be proud.” Others pointed out how the victory was a statement of intent, showing the Springboks’ depth and resilience after weeks of criticism.

A Win With A Bigger Meaning

For the All Blacks, the night was a painful reminder of their rebuilding phase. With several debutants in their ranks, they struggled to match the Springboks’ intensity. South Africans, meanwhile, celebrated not just the scoreboard but the symbolic message: this is a team capable of reinventing itself without losing its identity.

Willemse summed it up simply: “I’m just very pleased for everyone in the team and the dressing room. The boys nailed their roles and capitalised very well.”

The result has not only kept South Africa’s Rugby Championship hopes alive, it has reinforced a familiar truth underestimate the Springboks at your peril.

Source: Sabc Sports 

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