Woodward supports Wallabies over SA tactics

England boss Clive Woodward has come out in support of Wallaby coach Eddie Jones who labelled the Springboks “a disgrace to world rugby” following Saturday’s fractious Tri-Nations encounter.

South Africa were accused of biting, spitting and eye-gouging in the 29-9 defeat in Brisbane, with Australia citing Robbie Kempson and Bakkies Botha for foul play in the aftermath of the match.

Kempson was subsequently banned for four weeks for a “late high tackle” on Toutai Kefu and Botha for eight weeks because he “used his hands in an irresponsible manner”, though it was found he did not deliberately gouge Wallaby hooker Brendan Cannon.

The Springboks’ lack of discipline was evident in last November’s 53-3 victory at Twickenham – a win tarnished by South Africa’s brutal and cynical gameplan.

Second row Jannes Labuschagne was sent off after just 24 minutes and banned for 23 days for a late charge on Jonny Wilkinson, while full-back Werner Greef was cited for a high tackle on Phil Christophers.

Skipper Corne Krige was accused by former England fly-half and Sky Sports pundit Stuart Barnes of “targeting the whole England team”, hooker James Dalton punched Matt Dawson on the floor and centres Robbie Fleck and Butch James made a series of illegal hits.

The Boks’ violent display left Woodward furious and their latest performance has prompted the England coach to back his old Wallaby sparring partner Jones - and at the same time stoked up the fires of England’s World Cup clash with South Africa on October 18.

“I thought the Springboks had stepped up a gear on Saturday – defensively they looked far more organised than when they beat Australia in South Africa last month,” said Woodward.

“I made my comments about their tactics against us because I was close to the match – I had time to look at the videos and could make my judgement. What happened on the weekend is for the Australians to deal with.

“But I have taken on board what Eddie Jones has said and can’t disagree with him too much – which is unusual.”