Springboks not trying to 'contain' All Blacks attack says Erasmus

Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus believes his team must outscore the All Blacks rather than restrain them in order to secure a 3-1 series in Baltimore.

After three Tests the All Blacks have score at least four tries in each and every game, while the Springboks opened up their attack in the third Test for more reward.

After failing behind twice, it was the intent to shift the ball wide that allowed the Springboks to strike back, first to Kurt-Lee Arendse in the corner to reduce a 7-0 deficit and secondly to Jesse Kriel who beat Leroy Carter one-on-one to take the lead 19-17.

The Springboks penalty try from the scrum also came after a big line break up the middle that almost saw Manie Libbok score under the posts.

“I think the important thing is we just have to score more points than them,” Erasmus said at the Springboks team naming in Baltimore.

“I think one of the biggest mistakes you can make against the All Blacks is just to try and defend.

“At the end of the day you just need to outscore your opposition. If it means they score four tries and you kick five drop goals like Jannie de Beer at the 1999 World Cup against England, you just need to score more points than them.

“To try and contain them is extremely difficult – just ask our franchises and France.”

Erasmus has just made two changes for the fourth Test, both in the backs with Damian Willemse returning for the injured Cheslin Kolbe while Morne van den Berg replaces Cobus Reinach in the starting side.

“Morné made a fantastic impact when he took the field last week, and he deserves a chance to start, so Cobus switches to the bench where he will add experience and skill in this vital match,” Erasmus said.

“Damian started the first two Tests and had it not been for a niggle last week, he would have also started that match, so it’s good to have him back.”

He’s retained most of the backline who were integral to striking back against the All Blacks at FNB Stadium.

“Damian [de Allende] was good on Saturday, Jesse [Kriel] was very good, Ethan [Hooker] did well, so I think the guys are getting better,” he added.