Chiliboy Ralepelle talks to the IRB's Total Rugby TV programme
Photo : WB/IRB
20 JUNE 2006
By Dominic Rumbles
South Africa captain Chiliboy Ralepelle says that he is fully expecting a match of final intensity when his South Africa side face New Zealand in the semi-final of the IRB Under 21 World Championship in Clermont Ferrand on Wednesday afternoon.
Speaking on the eve of the crunch match at Parc des Sports Marcel Michelin, the talented 19-year-old hooker, believes that New Zealand, still smarting from the defeat to Australia, will enter the match determined to make amends and will provide extremely tough opposition for his South Africa side.
“New Zealand are a very good side,” said Ralepelle. “They are very strong and will definitely throw everything at us, but at the end of the day we are not going to stand back for anyone and we are extremely positive entering the match and will certainly be looking to capitalise on every opportunity that we create.”
Taking opportunities is certainly something that this class of 2006 South Africa side have become accustomed to. Australia aside, Pieter de Villiers side are the only undefeated team in the tournament, having racked up more points than any other team and come into the match on the back of a particularly impressive performance against France in Issoire on Saturday.
The result – a 14-10 victory to South Africa – may not look outstanding on paper, but the reigning champions showed a great deal of character to defeat a France side who were spurred on by the vocal support of a passionate home support. Indeed belief within a squad who are used to winning has certainly been the key as Ralepelle explains.
“We are only here for one thing and that is to win each game that we play,” revealed the hooker. “For us each game that we play is like a final so the key really is to approach each game separately and take every opportunity that we get on the field to ensure that we achieve that aim.”
We are only here for one thing and that is to win each game that we play.
South Africa captain Chiliboy Rapelle preview's Wednesday's semi-final match against New Zealand.
With matches coming thick and fast in the tournament, there is little time for Ralepelle and his team mates to enjoy some quality down time, but the 19 year old says that the mood in the Springbok camp is extremely relaxed
“The mood in the camp is extremely good. The match against France was a tough won, but we were pleased to get the victory. In preparation this week we have tried to keep the guys off their feet as much as we can and everyone is relaxed and looking forward to the semi-final.”
The 2006 IRB Under 21 World Championships have certainly captured the imagination of the French public, who have attended in impressive numbers and with a strong crowd expected at Parc des Sports Michelin on Wednesday, Ralepelle says that he has certainly enjoyed the experience thus far.
“The atmosphere at this tournament has been great. It has certainly been a good experience so far.”
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