Borthwick Admits: ‘Painful Days Ahead’ After Springboks’ Stinging Defeat

Borthwick “Incredibly Disappointed” After England’s Loss to South Africa

 

 

Steve Borthwick expressed his frustration and disappointment after England’s 29-20 defeat to South Africa at Allianz Stadium on Saturday, admitting that “these are painful days” for the team. The loss marked England’s fifth straight Test defeat, and they are now on a three-game home losing streak for the first time since 2006.

 

 

England started strong, with Ollie Sleightholme scoring on his debut, and led 20-19 in the second half. However, a late Handré Pollard penalty and Cheslin Kolbe’s second try sealed the win for South Africa, despite England’s late push for a comeback.

 

 

 

Borthwick acknowledged the team’s positive moments but was critical of their failure to capitalize on key opportunities. “We put ourselves in positions to win, but we didn’t take our chances,” he said. “At times, we were toe-to-toe with South Africa, but in the last period, we didn’t convert when it mattered.”

 

 

Despite the tough loss, Borthwick remains hopeful that these experiences will help the team grow. “These days are tough, but we’ll use them to help our development. We have a lot of young players, and their transition into the team is being accelerated. They will be brilliant international players in the future, but right now, it’s difficult.”

 

 

Borthwick remains confident that England is heading in the right direction and believes he has the full support of the Rugby Football Union (RFU). “The feeling I get from the RFU is one of absolute support and belief in where we’re heading,” he added.

 

 

While the losses are tough, Borthwick is determined to use these setbacks as stepping stones to improve the team and build for the future.