Incredibly it has now been a full year since the Springboks lifted the Rugby World Cup trophy for the third time in Yokohama.
So much has been said and written about their performance on 2 November 2019 and the weeks and months that led into it.
South Africans and rugby fans from all over the world have savoured the inside look at the triumph provided by the excellent Chasing the Sun documentary.
The insights into the Springboks triumph provided by the docu-series has given us a fresh perspective on perhaps the most emotionally charged performance from a South African sports team for decades. And of course, we all owe Willie Le Roux a big apology as it has been revealed he played the latter part of the tournament suffering from a ‘stinger’ which left him effectively playing with one arm.
We have learned so much about the genius of Rassie Erasmus and everything that went into powering the Springboks to a record-equalling third world title.
A brief look into what went into the Springboks World Cup redemption
After a physical first half the Springboks led 12-6, winning most of the physical battles, and Erasmus didn’t need to make any changes to the plans at half-time.
Relive Rassie Erasmus’ half-time teamtalk
In the second half the Springboks would make history by scoring a try in the final for the first time with Makazole Mapimpi crossing the whitewash after a brilliant chip from the wing was gathered in by his good mate Lukhanyo Am who set him away with an instinctive pass.
Watch Mapimpi make history
Not to be outdone and with England now well and truly on the back foot, Cheslin Kolbe stepped through the English defence to score a great try that calmed the nerves back home.
Watch Kolbe’s terrific stepping try
The Springboks won the final off the back of their setpiece strength and physicality against a young England team.
Many have broken down the final, but few have put together a more complete analysis of the triumph than Welshmen Robbie Owen, better known as Squidge Rugby.
Watch the Squidge Rugby analysis of the Springboks victory
The Springboks were not short on heroes throughout the Rugby World Cup some widely heralded and others unsung, but the triumph is something treasured by many South Africans.
The 32-12 win still sends shivers of excitement through the bodies of Springbok fans.
Relive the Springboks 2019 Rugby World Cup Final triumph
