Kevin Foote pleased as Junior Boks combine flair and grit in Argentina victory

The Junior Boks impressed with a high-tempo attacking display, complemented by a determined defensive effort that pleased the Gqeberha crowd.

Despite the convincing scoreline, Foote said the match was a demanding physical contest and praised his side's commitment to an exciting brand of rugby.

"We never want to stop the guys from expressing themselves, and our journey is just starting now," Foote said after the game.

Riley Norton spearheaded a defensive effort that kept the South Americans at bay for the opening hour. The SA U20 captain said the performance was pleasing and hailed the Junior Boks' fighting spirit and grit.

"It's about character - it comes down to the heart that each player has," said Norton of the match against a competitive Argentine side.

The Junior Bok captain also pointed to the intensity of the visitors, noting that Argentina fought throughout the full 80 minutes, while crediting his forward pack for fronting up against a set-piece he described as the traditional "bread and butter" of their game.

Among the standout performers was hard-running inside centre Ethan Adams, whose midfield physicality earned him two first-half tries. Out wide, winger Jack Benade marked his Junior Bok debut with a hat-trick.

Norton also praised the passionate Eastern Cape crowd that turned out to support the team on Freedom Day: "It was such a special occasion to sing our anthem with the crowd. I am so pleased that we could play some really exciting rugby today, especially in the first half, and be successful in what was always going to be a tough encounter against Argentina."

South Africa top the standings after the opening round on five points, ahead of New Zealand on four and Australia on one, while Argentina are yet to get off the mark.

The Junior Boks face Australia next at 16h10 on Sunday, after the Australians went down 34-29 to New Zealand in their opener. New Zealand and Argentina meet earlier at 14h00. Tickets, starting from R35 per person, are available here.

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