“We deserved to lose”: Reactions to Springboks shocked by Wallabies

The Springboks almost mustered the comeback of a lifetime against the Wallabies on Saturday, 27 September.

Australia were rampant in Perth, leading 42-17 before an epic disciplinary meltdown saw South Africa come close.

However, beyond the scoreline, fans are divided between criticism and optimism over what the loss actually means.

Erasmus refuses to make excuses

Coach Rassie Erasmus was frank about the result, stating that the Springboks had fallen to a stronger Wallabies side.

As cited by the South Africa Rugby website, he said after the game:

“For us, we lost in a Springbok jersey against Australia, and with all the disruptions, we have nobody else to blame but ourselves for the result.”

Some fans have agreed, believing that the loss in Perth is an opportunity for the world champions to improve.

@okaykwa commented on an Instagram post by SA Rugby, saying:

“We need this L people it’s part of the process. Exposing our flaws is what we need.”

Reactions to Springboks’ loss include referee criticism

Other fans have questioned the officiating of referee Andrea Piardi and the communication issues that plagued the game.

At one point, the Italian ref had to consult the TMO via a cellphone, while the stadium clock and scoreboard needed to be updated several times.

Piardi has come under fire over his so-called inconsistency, especially at the scrums.

That cut both ways in the match – in the second half, Australia were reduced to 12 men after successive yellow cards.

@lonzoooo_1 did not rate the referee’s performance:

“Well done boys, great fight, they can’t handle us on our day, that ref cost ya’ll the match with his bad officiating.”

However, Erasmus was clear in not blaming the officiating, instead framing the result as “valuable experience.”

Could the loss in Perth help the Springboks?

With Australia hosting the Rugby World Cup next year, the timing of their win over the Springboks is important.

South Africa play 2 tournament games at the Perth Stadium and would have already scouted the conditions.

Erasmus would also be aware of a potential repeat of Sunday’s game in the knockouts.

Should Australia end second in their pool, they would set up a clash with the Springboks with the numbers on their side.

However, there is still a lot of rugby to play before then, and Erasmus clearly still has work to do.

As @travelwihtjaco2025 quipped:

“Australia think they won the World Cup after today bahahaha.”

WILL THE LOSS IN PERTH HELP SOUTH AFRICA IN THE LONG RUN?

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