Springbok fans can step off the ledge. At least for today. The Tri Nations has been undoubtedly disappointing this year, especially given the promise going in and the win at the House of Pain in July. But today the green and gold crushed the Wallabies 53-8 at Coca Cola Park in Johannesburg. Jongi Nokwe scored four tries, including a first-half hat trick to lead the Springboks in a Man of the Match performance. Both the margin of victory and Nokwe's four tries were all-time Springbok records against the Australians.
This probably will not stanch the grumbling about Peter de Villiers’ coaching, team selection, or anything else. But give the man time. A post-World Cup hangover coupled with a coaching change probably meant there would be growing pains. De Villiers deserves a chance to put his imprint on the Springbok program. They will be fine, as will he.