Nations Championship news: Damian Willemse and Cheslin Kolbe inspire Springboks rout of England
The Springboks made a commanding start to their Nations Championship campaign on Saturday, July 4, producing a dominant 45-21 victory over England at Ellis Park in Johannesburg.
Seven different try-scorers highlighted South Africa's attacking depth, but it was milestone men Damian Willemse and Cheslin Kolbe who stole the show.
Willemse delivered a superb all-round display in his 50th Test, while Kolbe celebrated the occasion with another electric performance as the world champions overwhelmed England to open the tournament in emphatic fashion.
Fast start lays the platform
South Africa immediately imposed themselves on the contest, racing into an early lead through Thomas du Toit's close-range try before Kolbe produced one of his trademark moments.
The winger stepped past England's defence with ease to score the Springboks' second try before Kurt-Lee Arendse extended the advantage, giving the hosts complete control during the opening exchanges.
England fought back before half-time through tries from Ellis Genge and George Martin to reduce the deficit to 17-14, but the Springboks shifted through the gears after the break.
Grant Williams, Jesse Kriel, Malcolm Marx and Ben-Jason Dixon all crossed as South Africa finished with seven tries to secure a convincing opening victory.
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Willemse produces a complete performance
Although he did not cross the whitewash himself, Damian Willemse was at the heart of almost everything the Springboks did well.
The full-back was exceptional under the high ball, repeatedly diffusing England's kicking game before launching dangerous counter-attacks.
His positioning, decision-making and ability to beat defenders over the gainline consistently put South Africa on the front foot, while his involvement in the build-up to several tries underlined his influence throughout the contest.
His display capped a memorable 50th Test appearance and reinforced why he remains one of the Springboks' most complete backline players.
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Kolbe torments England again
Kolbe once again proved to be England's chief tormentor.
The winger's early try showcased the footwork and acceleration that have made him one of world rugby's most dangerous finishers, while his constant involvement forced England's defence to remain on high alert whenever he touched the ball.
Kolbe also contributed five successful conversions to round off another influential performance in green and gold as he celebrated his own 50th Test cap in style.
Player of the Match confusion corrected
There was a moment of confusion after the final whistle when the Player of the Match award was initially presented to Damian de Allende.
However, it was later confirmed that the award should have gone to Damian Willemse following his outstanding display at full-back.
The correction ensured Willemse received deserved recognition for one of the finest performances of the opening weekend of the Nations Championship.
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Springboks send an early message
England showed resilience to stay within touching distance during the first half, but the Springboks' physical dominance, attacking precision and squad depth ultimately proved overwhelming.
Rassie Erasmus' side now head into the remainder of the Nations Championship with momentum firmly on their side, having produced a performance that highlighted both their power up front and their quality in the backline.
If Saturday's display is any indication, the reigning world champions have laid down an early marker to the rest of the competition.
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