Junior Boks need no extra motivation for New Zealand showdown

Results elsewhere worked in South Africa’s favour, with New Zealand losing to Argentina earlier in the day, while the hosts powered to a commanding 56-17 win over Australia to stay unbeaten.

That outcome confirmed the Junior Boks as champions with an unassailable lead at the top of the standings heading into the final round.

They now meet New Zealand in their last fixture on Saturday, 9 May, in what may be a dead rubber on paper, but Norton says the rivalry ensures intensity will remain high.

"Obviously, I actually didn't know we had won it, but you naturally would be up for a game against New Zealand. I think it's one of our biggest rivalries; we have a lot of respect for them and I think if we take our foot off the pedal now, that's a game that can come back and bite you," said Norton

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"We know very well and truly that we can't take our foot of the gas; we can even go harder, we can push ourselves, and we can finish off this tournament with a lot of pride. Obviously, playing in front of our fans at home – people have come out today and hopefully next week saturday to come and watch us – we don't want to disappoint them."

"I think we also don't want to disappoint ourselves, so there is a lot of motivation coming. I don't think that will be a factor at all. I think we want to finish as best as we can and just carry on improving."

Norton admits there are still areas that require attention, particularly at the breakdown where momentum was disrupted by turnovers at key stages.

He credited Australia for applying pressure in that facet of the game.

While the overall display was clinical, Norton believes improving ball security and decision-making will be crucial against New Zealand.

Across their opening two matches, South Africa have scored 105 points and conceded 34, highlighting their attacking threat while also pointing to defensive aspects that continue to be refined.

After the 49-17 bonus-point victory over Argentina, Norton says the team showed progress in tightening up defensively compared to their first outing.

He also pointed to the strong connections built within the group off the field as a driving force behind their cohesion, while praising head coach Kevin Foote for his influence.

The Junior Springboks conclude their Under-20 Rugby Championship campaign against New Zealand next Saturday at 16:10 in their final fixture of the tournament.