In the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, the Springboks famously held on for a 12-11 victory over arch-rivals the All Blacks, staving off a ferocious fightback from New Zealand.
It was a result that could have undoubtedly gone either way, especially considering how the All Blacks missed a couple of kicks at goal, but in the end it was the Springboks who fought their way to a fourth World Cup title.
Appearing on The Dom Harvey Podcast, All Blacks forwards coach Jason Ryan said the emotions after that game were simply ‘awful’.
“Oh, it simmers. There’s still that burnt memory there and it should be, the expectation is the All Blacks should win every Test and reality is that’s not going to happen but it’s how we respond to those,” said Ryan.
“But I honestly thought we were in a great spot as a whole management group, coaching group and playing group to win that game and right up until even probably the last minute I still thought we were going to win it. I really did.
“So I think the boys gave it their all and you’re always going to get a few calls and bits and pieces that go against you. That’s footy.”
The Springboks have continued a winning streak over the All Blacks
Last year, the Springboks claimed back-to-back wins over a relatively new-look All Blacks team, with Ryan reflecting on how tough it was for a few players to bow out of international rugby after that World Cup final defeat.
“It was pretty awful in the sheds (after the game). You know, like seeing guys pull the jersey off for the last time that have given so much. That’s a memory that will stick with me for a long time, you know,” he added.
“There was Dane Coles, Sammy Whitelock. There was Brodie Retallick that was in my area, the forwards, so you sort of stay a little bit more closer to them in a way.
“Aaron Smith been giving great service. So it was tough, you know. It was awful seeing them know that that’s the last time they’ll wear the jersey and it’s been a big part of their life and they’re known as great Kiwis.”
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