Damian de Allende has given the Springbok performance against Italy seven-and-a-half out of 10, reports JON CARDINELLI in Omaezaki.

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The Boks scored seven tries in their 49-3 win against Shizuoka on Friday. Coach Rassie Erasmus hailed the physicality of the players afterward and stated that the team is on the right tactical track.

Players interviewed after the match echoed the coach’s sentiments. While every player conceded that the attack needs sharpening, there is a lot to build on ahead of the playoffs.

HIGHLIGHTS: Springboks vs Italy 

‘The forwards, starting with the front row, really set the tone,’ said De Allende.

‘This was always going to be the toughest pool game after the game against New Zealand. We were a bit nervous going into the match against the All Blacks. I felt like we expressed ourselves today.’

De Allende was pressed to rate the Bok performance out of 10.

‘I’d give us seven-and-a-half,’ he said.

‘Obviously there are a few things to work on, but we are creating a lot of opportunities out there. It’s encouraging to see.’

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