Matfield expects Italy to keep things tight

VICTOR MATFIELD anticipates a tight tussle when South Africa meet Italy in the first game of a two-Test series at the Puma Stadium in Witbank today.

The Springboks lock expects Italy to keep the game in close quarters, focusing on scrummaging and kicking.

“They have a strong scrum and we expect them to keep the ball close and try to force penalties,” said Matfield, who will captain the side for the first time since 2008.