Wallace Sititi, standing in for Ardie Savea, remains optimistic despite the All Blacks' recent string of losses as they gear up for their final showdown against the Springboks in Baltimore this Saturday. The team lands in the U.S. beleaguered by defeats and burdened by the losses of key players like Savea and Luke Jacobson.
Sititi isn't interested in excuses and emphasizes the necessity of rising to the occasion. "We have been around long enough to know that when it’s time to step up, it’s your time to step up," he declared. "We will make sure we hold each other accountable."
"We had a pretty stern review and now it’s about moving forward."
Despite stepping up admirably in the third Test with notable statistics, Sititi acknowledged the team's glaring issues, especially in the scrums and lineouts, which have become significant weaknesses. The All Blacks were penalized twelve times, which Sititi admits is a serious concern.
"Anywhere you give away penalties it’s always an issue. Not just the breakdown. Sort of anywhere," he explained, emphasizing how penalties have allowed their opponents too easy access into their territory.
The Springboks exploited these weaknesses effectively, scoring directly from set pieces. "It is never nice for any team when you concede tries like we did at the weekend and it’s something that we don’t take lightly," Sititi noted, admitting the need for improvement in these critical areas.
As the All Blacks recalibrate for the upcoming match, the focus is clear: address the errors and tighten their game to avoid giving the Springboks any advantage. With the series on the line, it’s all-in for a team known for their resilience and ability to bounce back under pressure.
The sports world watches eagerly as two rugby powerhouses clash once more, with the All Blacks seeking redemption and the Springboks aiming to capitalize on their current momentum.
