Esterhuizen urges Springboks to cut out errors ahead of Pumas clash

Sledgehammer Springbok Andre Esterhuizen sizzled in Wellington last week, scoring the Boks’ final try in the 43-10 rout, but he says the side can be much better if they cut out the clumsiness.

Andre the Giant, as he is known across the rugby world, entered the fray early in Wellington from the bench after injuries to Aphelele Fassi and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, and delivered arguably his most commanding performance in the green and gold.

“It was special to be part of a game like that, but we can be so much better,” the centre said of the 43-10 win.

“There is still so much to work on. Yes, in the second half a lot went our way when we executed far better — we scored 36 unanswered points — but there were too many errors in the first half.

“We executed better because we worked harder and played more as a team. That shows what we can do when we perform well together. The biggest lesson is that if we execute clinically, then we can be very good. Now we must consistently put in good performances.”

Looking ahead to the clash at Kings Park, Esterhuizen warned that conditions will be tricky and that Argentina will bring both attitude and form.

“It is going to be slippery. You can bet on it with an evening kick-off (5.10pm). While the heat and humidity have not fully kicked in yet, it will be around 26 degrees — hot enough to generate sweat, with plenty of dew about,” the Sharks stalwart said.

“As always with Argentina, you can expect a tough battle. It’s a tough country with tough people, so it’s always going to be physical.

"They’ve come a long way in how they play. They have flair, they take opportunities from loose ball, and they have special players who can make things happen. It’s going to be a tight game, especially up front.

“They are a very good side. They like to move the ball and use their opportunities, so our big challenge will be to counter their loose play. We need to deliver a quality performance until the final whistle.”

Esterhuizen stressed that the Pumas’ consistent form in recent years confirms they are not a flash-in-the-pan side.

“They beat all three opposition teams in the competition last year, and they defeated New Zealand and Australia again this year, so they are dangerous.”

The 30-year-old said he has enjoyed his transition from centre to a hybrid role that can also see him used on the side of the scrum.

“Luckily, my size makes it easier to do that. For me, it’s quite natural — obviously there are a few things I still have to learn. It can be tough up front. Forwards’ training sessions are quite different to the backs! Whether I go on at six or 12, I’m just happy to play.”