Ciara Griffin: Etzebeth and Savea show that not every superhero wears a cape
South Africa's Eben Etzebeth celebrates following the Rugby World Cup 2023 quarter final match at the Stade de France. Pic: Adam Davy/PA Wire.
It appears Southern hemisphere teams like to throw a spanner in the works. New Zealand ripped up Ireland's script and South Africa dumped out the host nation. Sacre bleu.
New Zealand always play on the edge in terms of legality but if it works why would you change it? They toyed with the offside line and staying on their feet at ruck time for the majority of the game.
They suffocated the Irish attack and really dominated the breakdown and set piece area. If you cannot win clean ball off set piece you are on the back foot and the All Blacks exacerbated this with a relentless defensive line.
South Africa played an electrifying style of rugby and really utilised the high ball in their attack. Mannie Libbok has been heavily criticised during this World Cup for his goal kicking but his vision around the park made the Springboks undefendable at times.
Their set piece and defensive dominance will be too great a challenge for England to overcome on Saturday. The stars are aligning nicely for an all-southern hemisphere final.
So much focus has been put on the playmakers from the different nations in this World Cup but for me, two forwards have outshone the so-called galacticos.
Eben Etzebeth and Ardie Savea have demonstrated that you do not have to just be a play maker to be a vital cog in the wheel of your teams success.
Etzebeth, the towering lock forward from South Africa, has been hugely influential in France. His exceptional skill, immense physicality, leadership, and relentless work ethic have made him arguably the standout performer.
Standing at 6'8" and weighing over 260 pounds, he is a formidable presence on the field. His prowess in the lineout has been instrumental in South Africa's set-piece dominance. But his contributions aren't limited to set-piece play.
He can be found all over the field, tackling ferociously, carrying the ball with purpose, and rucking with gusto. His high tackle count is one thing, but in addition to his defensive attributes, Etzebeth possesses an impressive skill set for a player of his size.
He has a deft touch in handling the ball, and his offloading ability is exceptional for a forward. I still believe his controversial turnover or forced interception five metres from his own line with two French attackers outside him was one of the bravest decisions I have seen at this World Cup.
Ardie Savea, the dynamic and versatile back-row forward for New Zealand is also a linchpin in their pursuit of the Webb Ellis Trophy.
One of his standout qualities is his exceptional versatility. He can seamlessly transition between the roles of openside flanker, blindside flanker, and number eight.
This flexibility allows the All Blacks to adapt their game plan to suit various opponents and game situations.
His impact in the breakdown is undeniable. His ability to pilfer the ball and slow down opposition ruck ball is critical in disrupting the flow of the opposing team's attack.
In the modern game, where quick ball is key, Savea's breakdown prowess is indispensable. He consistently puts pressure on the opposition's ball, giving the All Blacks an edge in both attack and defence.
His tackling technique is textbook, and he's known for making bone-crushing hits that can change the momentum of a game.
His relentless work rate in defence provides a solid foundation for the All Blacks' defensive line and helps neutralise the threats posed by the opposition's backline.
Savea's support lines are also a key feature of his play, often positioning himself perfectly to offload or finish tries.
In high-pressure situations, he remains cool and composed, inspiring confidence and belief in the squad.
In a sport where penalties and cards can be game-changing, Savea consistently shows control and composure.
He's a player who knows how to push the boundaries without crossing the line, and his ability to stay on the field is crucial for New Zealand's success.
Both Etzebeths and Savea's influence in the World Cup can be seen in every aspect of the game, from the scrums and lineouts to the open-field play.
Their adaptability, defensive prowess, offensive contributions, leadership, and discipline make them an indispensable asset to both South Africa and New Zealand respectively.
As both nations strive to make the final, Etzebeth and Savea will undoubtedly be at the forefront, making significant contributions and striving for success on rugby's grandest stage.
Their presence and skills are pivotal in the Springboks and All Blacks' quest for World Cup glory, and their impact on the team is immeasurable.
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