Coetzee demanding Springboks beat Wales

Dec 1, 2017 - 3:21 PM Head coach Allister Coetzee has urged South Africa to confirm their upturn in form by beating Wales in Cardiff.

The Springboks were heavily beaten by Ireland three weeks ago but recovered to beat France in Paris and then Italy.

Coetzee says a first victory over Wales in Cardiff since 2013 on Saturday must now be a real target.

"I am really satisfied with the progress shown this year, which has been massive compared to this time last year," Coetzee said.

"The players have grown, there is a lot of cohesion and the evolution has been satisfactory. If we could finish the tour with three wins, it would show a massive improvement.

"Ireland were too good for us and played an excellent kicking game. We learnt from that and pulled through against France, and we were clinical against Italy. We have to take it one step further this weekend.

"The team is completely different from Cardiff last year, the team environment has changed a hell of a lot and our processes are in place with a clear understanding of how we want to play.

"I made a lot of changes this time last year, but this year there has been continuity and smoother transitions. I am confident these players will take the opportunity this weekend to perform well and end the season on a high."

Prop Tendai Mtawarira (groin) is replaced by Steven Kitshoff, while four other changes see wing Warrick Gelant making his first Test start, hooker Malcolm Marx returning from a shoulder injury, flanker Siya Kolisi also back and No.8 Dan du Preez also handed a full international debut.

Source: AAP