Grant Williams, in a cheeky admission, confessed to stealing the limelight – and a try – from Willie le Roux during the Springboks' recent demolition of Italy at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. Making a striking return after a three-month hiatus due to injury, Williams played a pivotal role in the Boks' commanding 45-0 victory, reasserting his presence and flair on the international stage.
The Sharks' scrumhalf, who crafted a slick partnership with Manie Libbok, kicked off the scoring spree just eight minutes into the game. Despite the Boks being short-handed for a significant portion of the match, Williams’ performance was a highlight, guiding his team through a match that saw them temporarily reduced to 14, and later 13 men.
"I wish I could have played for the Sharks first,"
Williams joked after the match, acknowledging some pre-game jitters after a frustrating layoff.
"There was a bit of nerves this week, but I'm happy we got the win and personally to be able to play again. There was obviously a little rust, but I’m looking forward to the next couple of weeks."
Williams, who scored early in the game, mentioned how the try helped settle his nerves, even though it was technically supposed to be Willie le Roux’s.
"It was great to score a try, even though it was Willie’s try that I took. My mindset last week was all about getting on the field and ensuring that I nail the detail, but I’m happy for the team and about the result,"
he shared.
The Springbok backline has been on fire, showcasing both offensive creativity and defensive solidity, traits that have propelled them to three consecutive victories. Discussing team strategies, Williams highlighted the depth and clarity within the squad, praising his seamless integration with Libbok.
"It’s not just like that with Manie. It’s the same with Sacha, Handre, Manie, and Damian. There’s a plan for every game, and this week the strategy was to try a few things, and it worked. It’s always special to play with Manie. We have a great relationship, but at the same time, it doesn’t matter who I play alongside."
As the Boks prepare for their upcoming test against Georgia at Mbombela Stadium, the team remains upbeat and focused, ready to extend their winning streak under the strategic guidance of coach Rassie Erasmus. Williams confirmed,
"It’s always difficult to get a red card, but if you know coach Rassie, there’s always a plan,"
illustrating the team’s preparedness for all contingencies.
2,193 posts
Grant Williams, in a cheeky admission, confessed to stealing the limelight – and a try – from Willie le Roux during the Springboks' recent demolition of Italy at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. Making a striking return after a three-month hiatus due to injury, Williams played a pivotal role in the Boks' commanding 45-0 victory, reasserting his presence and flair on the international stage.
The Sharks' scrumhalf, who crafted a slick partnership with Manie Libbok, kicked off the scoring spree just eight minutes into the game. Despite the Boks being short-handed for a significant portion of the match, Williams’ performance was a highlight, guiding his team through a match that saw them temporarily reduced to 14, and later 13 men.
"I wish I could have played for the Sharks first,"
Williams joked after the match, acknowledging some pre-game jitters after a frustrating layoff."There was a bit of nerves this week, but I'm happy we got the win and personally to be able to play again. There was obviously a little rust, but I’m looking forward to the next couple of weeks."
Williams, who scored early in the game, mentioned how the try helped settle his nerves, even though it was technically supposed to be Willie le Roux’s.
"It was great to score a try, even though it was Willie’s try that I took. My mindset last week was all about getting on the field and ensuring that I nail the detail, but I’m happy for the team and about the result,"
he shared.The Springbok backline has been on fire, showcasing both offensive creativity and defensive solidity, traits that have propelled them to three consecutive victories. Discussing team strategies, Williams highlighted the depth and clarity within the squad, praising his seamless integration with Libbok.
"It’s not just like that with Manie. It’s the same with Sacha, Handre, Manie, and Damian. There’s a plan for every game, and this week the strategy was to try a few things, and it worked. It’s always special to play with Manie. We have a great relationship, but at the same time, it doesn’t matter who I play alongside."
As the Boks prepare for their upcoming test against Georgia at Mbombela Stadium, the team remains upbeat and focused, ready to extend their winning streak under the strategic guidance of coach Rassie Erasmus. Williams confirmed,
"It’s always difficult to get a red card, but if you know coach Rassie, there’s always a plan,"
illustrating the team’s preparedness for all contingencies.